[en] A rugged, portable mass spectrometer is described that can be used for gas analyses in remote areas, yet is suitable for laboratory use. Representative results from several studies, including preshot gas analyses of atmospheres from canisters used in the Cannikin Event, are given. Operational procedures and performance experience are included. (auth)

No abstract available

[en] A portable, remote-controlled mass spectrometer was required at the Nevada Test Site to analyze prompt post-event gas from the nuclear cavity in support of the underground testing program. A Balzers QMG-511 quadrupole was chosen for its ability to be interfaced to a DEC LSI-11 computer and to withstand the ground movement caused by this field environment. The inlet system valves, the pumps, the pressure and temperature transducers, and the quadrupole mass spectrometer are controlled by a read-only-memory-based DEC LSI-11/2 with a high-speed microwave link to the control point which is typically 30 miles away. The computer at the control point is a DEC LSI-11/23 running the RSX-11 operating system. The instrument was automated as much as possible because the system is run by inexperienced operators at times. The mass spectrometer has been used on an initial field event with excellent performance. The gas analysis system is described, including automation by a novel computer control method which reduces operator errors and allows dynamic access to the system parameters

No abstract available

No abstract available

[en] Permeabilities of noble gases, particularly argon, krypton, and xenon, were measured through a number of polymer films and coatings. Extrapolation of the log of the permeation coefficient versus the square of the gas molecular diameter was used to estimate radon permeability. An equation has been developed that can predict permeability to these noble gases as a function of the base polymer structure of the coating

No abstract available

[en] Coatings for use as radon barriers were evaluated. Coating materials evaluated included epoxy resins, furfuryl alcohol polymers, styrenated polyesters, polyvinyl acetate, and acrylic emulsions. It was calculated that virtually all coatings with permeation constants lower than 10^-10 cm³/sub STP/ . cm/s . cm².cm Hg and thicknesses between 5 and 10 mil will provide nearly 100 percent effectiveness. The selection of a suitable coating then ought to be based on other factors such as cost/m², vapor toxicity during application, ability to bind to the uranium ore in continuous films free of pin-holes etc. Obviously, any openings in the mine shafts and tunnels which are not covered with a film or any discontinuities of the film will act like the spillway on a water dam, i.e., the radon contained behind the barrier will flow out into the tunnel. (U.S.)

[en] The eyes of albino rabbits were exposed in vivo to 7000 rad of X radiation, and the retinas were examined with a scanning electron microscope 24 and 72 h after irradiation. The rods and cones of the retina were observed to show the most severe damage

[en] There is common drive throughout industry towards reduced costs of ownership of plant and equipment. Rolls-Royce and Associates Ltd. has developed the systems and expertise necessary to achieve these objectives. This Paper outlines the methods being used on existing facilities, and describes a new all embracing process called Planned Lifetime Management. This process, based on the military standard Integrated Logistic Support, ensures that all aspects of support are clearly identified at the design stage and that support is monitored to allow through-life support costs to be optimized. (author)