Counting losses in multidetector radiation counters (whole-body counters)

Abstract

We examined the reasons for the reduction in response of a multidetector radiation counting system when operated at high count-rates and established a convenient method of correction which is accurate to within +/- 1% up to 0-6 X 10(5) counts per second. In its application the method uses the observed count-rates from each detector at the time of measurement and previously determined values of critical time intervals of the electronic system. The detected signals establish these intervals in which further signals occurring within them are lost from the response. These further signals can also cause the loss of the signals establishing the intervals. The correction is of particular value when high-sensitivity whole-body counters are used to measure the activity of administered isotopes in metabolic studies.