NuAlphaCELL

Alpha spectrometry results depend on the quality of the measured sample. NuAlphaCell transfers radionuclides from solution onto a stainless steel planchet by electrodeposition under controlled conditions: geometry, current, deposition time and electrolyte stirring. During process verification, nearly quantitative deposition was achieved in the pH range of 1.6 to 2.2.

Key benefits

• Reproducible deposition conditions: constant-current mode (typically 1 A) and adjustable anode–cathode distance with an indicator (typically 10 mm).
• Homogeneous electrolyte: rotating PtIr 90:10 spiral anode at 0 to 200 rpm and a cassette with eight NdFeB magnets.
• Verified deposition yield: nearly quantitative deposition at pH 1.6 to 2.2; recommended working range pH 1.8 to 2.0.
• Reduced risk of cross-contamination: replaceable 20 ml HDPE deposition vials and Ø 25 × 0.5 mm planchets, 10 of each supplied.
• Easy decontamination: removable parts made of PEEK, PVDF and stainless steel, integrated drip tray.
• No control electronics or software: powered by the supplied two-channel laboratory power supply, 0–30 V DC / 0–3 A, safety extra-low voltage (SELV).
• Compact for fume hood use: dimensions approx. 140 × 180 × 300 mm, weight approx. 4.3 kg.

System overview

The assembly comprises the cell body with a vertical slide and electrode distance indicator, a base with a planchet seat, a centre ring holding the deposition vial, a condensation funnel and a motor-driven rotating anode. The stainless steel planchet forms the cathode, on whose surface the radionuclide is deposited electrochemically from the electrolyte.
Channel 1 of the laboratory power supply drives the electrodeposition in constant-current mode; channel 2 powers the 24 V DC anode motor, whose speed is set by voltage. An oxalate- and sulphate-based electrolyte with added DTPA at a pH of about 1.9 is used as standard. The device is designed for operation in a laboratory fume hood or a dry indoor environment.

Typical applications

• Radiochemical laboratories prepare measurement samples from solution on a stainless steel planchet for the determination of alpha emitters by alpha spectrometry.
• Laboratories prepare standards for low-energy gamma spectrometry.
• Facilities in the nuclear industry, environmental monitoring and radiation protection ensure repeatable sample preparation for alpha spectrometry.

Main specifications