Handbook of Radioactivity Analysis is written by experts in the measurement of radioactivity. The book describes the broad scope of analytical methods available and instructs the reader on how to select the proper technique. It is intended as a practical manual for research which requires the accurate measurement of radioactivity at all levels, from the low levels encountered in the environment to the high levels measured in radioisotope research. This book contains sample preparation procedures, recommendations on steps to follow, necessary calculations, computer controlled analysis, and high sample throughput techniques. Each chapter includes practical techniques for application to nuclear safety, nuclear safeguards, environmental analysis, weapons disarmament, and assays required for research in biomedicine and agriculture. The fundamentals of radioactivity properties, radionuclide decay, and methods of detection are included to provide the basis for a thorough understanding of the analytical procedures described in the book. Therefore, the Handbook can also be used as a teaching text. - Includes sample preparation techniques for matrices such as soil, air, plant, water, animal tissue, and surface swipes - Provides procedures and guidelines for the analysis of commonly encountered na

The literature so far has reviewed only single-crystal and, up to some extent, optical ceramic scintillators. This book introduces and describes in detail the research and development in thin film scintillators, glass ceramics, as well as nanocomposite and optical ceramics prepared by spark plasma sintering. It also features example of an in-depth study of a ZnO-based powder phosphor material. Both technology description and various characterization aspects are provided together with application hints. No other book has been published so far that includes and reviews the scintillator materials covered in this book with their specific technologies. Moreover, technological description is merged with detailed characterization, and the application potential is discussed as well. This book is intended for a wide audience, including postgraduate and PhD students and scientists working in the field of scintillators and phosphors. The extended introductory text, which has a textbook character, will be of immense benefit to students and non-specialists, too.