A Monte Carlo model has been developed, using the EGS4 code, to model the in vivo x-ray fluorescence (XRF) measurement of Pb in non-superficial bone/tissue. Unlike previous work in this field the current model incorporates a correction for Doppler broadening of the Compton scatter peak due to the electron momentum distribution of the medium (tissue/water) in which the photons are Compton scattered by convolving the Compton peak of the Monte Carlo generated spectrum with a modified Compton profile for water. This correction improves the agreement between the measured spectral shape obtained using an experimental in vivo x-ray fluorescence Pb analyser with a 109Cd/180 degrees source/geometry combination, measuring a bone phantom at depth in water and the generated spectral shape obtained from the equivalent Monte Carlo model. The model enables improved estimates to be made of the spectral background beneath the Pb Kalpha1 and Kalpha2 x-ray peaks compared with estimates based on simpler models that assume that Compton interactions are with 'free' electrons and hence permits better optimization of in vivo analyser system design.
An investigation was undertaken of the contamination of equipment and flooring by 210Po, released from a static eliminator source, at a soft-drink manufacturing plant. The detection and establishment of extent of contamination, development of decontamination and control procedures and difficulties in implementing those procedures are discussed. Additionally, the likely health effects to workers are assessed. The removal and disposal of contaminated equipment, the use of epoxy compound on the floor to seal fixed contamination and the implementation of a 5-y monitoring program are detailed. The estimated cost of decontamination is provided.
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