IEEE/ANSI N42.13-1986

This standard covers the technique for the quantification of the activity of identified radionuclides using any of a variety of ionization chambers currently available for this purpose. Application of the standard is limited to instruments that incorporate well-type ionization chambers as detectors.

The wide range of calibrator-type instruments currently being used primarily for radionuclide assay in nuclear medicine indicates the need for a standard for uniformity in measurement and test techniques. Such devices are composite systems consisting of an ionization chamber integrally coupled to appropriate electronic circuitry that converts the ionization current to a readout in units of activity. The principles of operation of the ionization chamber are well summarized in the NCRP Report No 58 and will not be repeated here. Wide activity range and stability are useful characteristics of ionization chambers in this application. The advantages of this type of system for radionuclide assay include ease of use and interpretation.

New IEEE Standard - Superseded. A technique for the quantification of the activity of identified radionuclides, using any of a variety of ionization chambers currently available for this purpose, is presented. Application of the standard is limited to instruments that incorporate well-type ionization chambers as detectors. The method provides measurements that are accurate to within plus or minus 10% and reproducible to within plus or minus 5%. The standard is also intended to ensure continuing performance of the apparatus within these specifications.