Induced radioactivity of LDEF materials and structural components

We present an overview of the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) induced activation measurements. The LDEF, which was gravity-gradient stabilized, was exposed to the low Earth orbit (LEO) radiation environment over a 5.8 year period. Retrieved activation samples and structural components from the spacecraft were analyzed with low and ultra-low background HPGe gamma spectrometry at several national facilities. This allowed a very sensitive measurement of long-lived radionuclides produced by proton- and neutron-induced reactions in the time-dependent, non-isotropic LEO environment. A summary of major findings from this study is given that consists of directionally dependent activation, depth profiles, thermal neutron activation, and surface beryllium-7 deposition from the upper atmosphere. We also describe a database of these measurements that has been prepared for use in testing radiation environmental models and spacecraft design.     

Microanalysis of unusual compounds. I Weighing hygroscopic samples

Summary A method is described for the construction of aluminium foil capsules in which hygroscopic samples may be dried to constant weight for combustion analysis.

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Zusammenfassung Die Herstellung von Kapseln aus Aluminiumfolie wird beschrieben. Hygroskopische Substanzen lassen sich darin bis zur Gewichtskonstanz trocknen, ehe sie analysiert werden.