Measurement of the Tritium Concentration in Natural Waters by a Diffusion Cloud Chamber

Abstract

The radioactivity of tritium is easily recognized and visually counted in a hydrogen-filled diffusion chamber. A 6-in. diameter diffusion chamber, filled with 100 psi of hydrogen obtained by completely converting 14 cc of water in a Mg furnace, is used to measure the tritium concentration in surface water of the Long Island Sound, in New Jersey well water, and in a number of rain and atmospheric moisture samples. These samples had tritium concentration (T/H ratios) that ranged from ${10}^{-15\mathrm{}}$ to 3×${10}^{-18\mathrm{}}$. Some samples were measured directly, others required some electrolysis to give measurable tritium concentrations. No tritium could be detected in glacial water.