Selection of Filter Media Used for Monitoring Airborne Alpha-Emitting Particles in a Radiological Emergency.

We have developed an air monitor for alpha-emitting particles released to the atmosphere at an accident of nuclear reprocessing plant. Selection of a suitable filter for the monitor is considerably important in order to achieve the high-sensitive measurement of radioactive concentration. We have examined surface collection efficiencies and pressure drops for the various filters that are commercially available in Japan. It was found that the PTFE membrane filter with backing had superior performance to the others, that is, a high surface collection efficiency and low pressure drop.