Liquid scintillation counter

Introduction

A liquid scintillation counter is an instrument used to measure the radioactivity of samples containing beta-emitting radionuclides, such as tritium, carbon-14, phosphorus-32, and sulfur-35, by detecting the light produced when the radiation interacts with a liquid scintillation cocktail, and it is used in radiochemistry, biology, medicine, environmental science, and research. In operation, the sample, containing the radionuclide, is mixed with a liquid scintillation cocktail, which contains a solvent and scintillators; the beta particles emitted by the radionuclide interact with the cocktail, transferring energy to the scintillators, which emit flashes of light, and the vial is placed in the counter, where photomultiplier tubes detect the light flashes, and the electronics count them and measure their intensity, which is related to the activity of the sample; the counter is designed to reduce background and to distinguish the sample signal, and it provides quantitative measurement of the radioactivity, with quench correction to account for the reduction of the light output by colored or chemical quenchers. Liquid scintillation counters are used for measuring tritium and carbon-14 in environmental and biological samples, for measuring radioactivity in metabolism and tracer studies, for radiocarbon dating, for measuring radioactivity in nuclear power and waste, for monitoring contamination, for research in biology and chemistry, and for many other applications, and they are available as benchtop instruments with features such as automatic sample changers, spectrum analysis, and data management. With their sensitivity to beta radiation, liquid scintillation counters are essential for measuring low-energy radioactivity.

Liquid Scintillation Counter LSCL-T2010

Liquid Scintillation Counter can handle up to 260 samples. It operates in energy spectrum analysis mode to assess sample properties. 20ml standard bottles are used for samples. The syst...

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Standards

ISO 13169:2018-Water quality-Uranium-Test method using alpha liquid scintillation counting

Complies with the above standards, but is not limited to them.

Features

1. Liquid scintillation counter for measuring radioactivity in liquid samples.

2. Dual- or triple-label counting for beta-emitting radioisotopes in scintillation cocktail.

3. Suitable for biomedical, pharmaceutical, environmental, nuclear and research labs.

4. Includes counting chamber, photomultipliers, quench correction, software and manual.

5. Supports 3H, 14C, 32P, 35S and other beta-emitting isotope measurement.

FAQ

Q1: What testing scenarios is this counter mainly applied to?

A: The liquid scintillation counter is used in biomedical research, pharmaceutical development, environmental monitoring, nuclear facilities, molecular biology and research to measure radioactivity in liquid samples containing beta-emitting radioisotopes (3H, 14C, 32P, 35S, etc.) mixed with scintillation cocktail for sensitive, quantitative radioisotope measurement. It supports biomedical research (metabolic labeling, receptor binding, DNA/RNA analysis), pharmaceutical ADME studies (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion), environmental radioactivity monitoring (tritium, carbon-14 in water), nuclear facility effluent monitoring, molecular biology assays, and radiotracer research. The liquid scintillation technique provides high counting efficiency for low-energy beta emitters (especially 3H) that are difficult to measure with other methods. It is essential for biomedical, pharmaceutical, environmental, nuclear and research laboratories requiring liquid scintillation counting for beta-emitting radioisotope measurement in biomedical research, pharmaceutical ADME, environmental monitoring, nuclear safety and molecular biology, where the liquid scintillation technique provides high-efficiency counting of low-energy beta emitters (3H, 14C) supporting metabolic studies, drug development, environmental monitoring and radiotracer research with proper quench correction and multi-label capability in regulated and research environments.

Q2: What standards does the counter comply with?

A: The liquid scintillation counter complies with relevant IEC 61010 laboratory electrical safety standards, applicable GB/T standards for radiation measurement equipment, and relevant radiation safety regulations. Calibration should use certified radioactive reference sources (quenched standards) traceable to national standards. The instrument follows applicable electromagnetic compatibility standards. Users must comply with all radiation safety regulations for use and possession of radioactive materials.

Q3: What is the warranty period for the whole machine and key components?

A: The whole liquid scintillation counter is covered by a 12-month warranty. The counting chamber, photomultiplier tubes, electronics and software are covered, while scintillation vials, cocktail, calibration sources and fuses are consumables or accessories. Damage from improper use, cocktail spills or unauthorized repair is excluded. Extended service contracts are available for this specialized radiation equipment.

Q4: Is this device difficult to operate? Is professional training required?

A: Operation requires specially trained radiation safety personnel familiar with liquid scintillation counting, radioisotope handling and regulatory requirements. We provide comprehensive training, operation manuals and application support. Proper sample preparation, cocktail selection, quench correction, calibration, radiation safety and regulatory compliance are critical for accurate, safe counting.

Q5: What is the typical lead-time for order delivery?

A: Standard models require 7-30 working days. In-stock units can ship within 3-7 working days. Custom configurations or large built-to-order systems may require additional time, and we confirm the exact schedule before order confirmation.

Q6: Is regular calibration required? What is the recommended calibration cycle?

A: Calibration with certified quenched standard sources recommended every 6-12 months. Routine background and efficiency check before each counting batch for critical measurements. PMT stability and high voltage verified. Quench curve verification per sample type. Full system performance verification annually. Radiation safety and regulatory inspections per schedule.

Q7: Are supporting consumables universal?

A: Scintillation vials, cocktail, calibration sources and caps are available from specialized radiation suppliers, though instrument compatibility should be verified. Long-term consumable cost is moderate to high depending on sample volume and cocktail usage. Radioactive sources require proper licensing and handling.

Q8: Can I customize parameters or supporting accessories?

A: Customization includes sample capacity (number of vials), counting efficiency, dual/triple label capability, quench correction method, sample changer, software features and accessories. Additional vials, cocktail and accessories can be ordered separately. Custom orders extend delivery lead-time.

Q9: Does the purchase include on-site installation and commissioning service?

A: Yes, liquid scintillation counters include on-site installation, commissioning, calibration and operator training by certified radiation instrumentation specialists. Radiation safety assessment and regulatory guidance are provided. Site preparation including radiation safety and ventilation is recommended before delivery.

Q10: What types of samples are compatible with this equipment?

A: The liquid scintillation counter measures beta radioactivity in liquid samples mixed with scintillation cocktail in compatible vials within the sample capacity, isotope type and activity specification. Common isotopes include 3H, 14C, 32P, 35S, 125I (gamma, with appropriate settings). Samples should be properly prepared with compatible cocktail (aqueous, organic, biodegradable) to ensure proper mixing and minimize quench. Different sample types (aqueous, organic, tissue digests) require specific cocktails and preparation methods. Users must hold appropriate radiation safety licenses and follow all regulatory requirements. Proper quench correction (external standard, spectral quench) is essential for accurate results, especially for 3H. Background subtraction and proper counting time should be used for low-level samples. The instrument should be located in a designated radiation area with proper ventilation (cocktail fumes) and monitoring. Vials should be properly sealed to prevent leakage and contamination. Waste (cocktail, vials) should be disposed of per radioactive and hazardous waste regulations. For pharmaceutical ADME studies, follow validated methods and GLP requirements. The counting chamber should be cleaned regularly to prevent contamination from vial leaks, and proper background monitoring should be maintained.