Calibration of an alpha-beta moving filter particulates monitor

Sampling and detection of airborne particulates is a dynamical process and depends on the detailed characteristics of monitoring instruments. A clear understanding of the impact of these details is essential for superior designs and optimized conditions of operation. Therefore, the new moving filter particulates monitor BAI 9128-ENV for environmental monitoring of airborne activity was carefully calibrated by injection of known activity concentrations. These experiments were conducted at the NRG calibration facilities in Petten, the Netherlands. The instrument's calibration factor and its dynamic behavior were determined from these measurements. Different techniques for the compensation of natural activities were applied and investigated. Detection limits in the presence of radon were determined.