Africa Surveyors May-June issue 2023 digital

RADIOMETRICS SURVEY
Susanne Scholz, Application
Engineer - Vexcel Imaging
David Armah, Director - Business
Development - A-M Surveys Ltd
Howard Barrie, President -
Terraquest
Ramesh Acharya Gundi, Chief
Geophysicist - Mcphar international
radiometric survey and it is therefore important that a careful control
of the background radiation is maintained during the survey operation.
For example, the survey area can be surveyed in stages to ensure that
there is no deterioration in the natural background before the next
stage.
“During the radiometric calibration, a series of images is captured,
including color targets, white fields, and dark frames. The use of
calibrated shutters ensures a consistent amount of light enters the
camera system. The illumination of the calibration environment is
crucial and requires a stable light source that closely approximates the
spectrum of the sun. By employing a calibrated spectrometer, the light
source can be carefully monitored throughout the calibration process,”
enlightens Susanne.
“The most important aspect of radiometric surveys in my candid
opinion is, ACCURACY,” asserts David Armah, Director of Business
Development and Admin at A - M Surveys Ltd.
“The measuring and analysing the levels of radiation in a given area
to identify and characterize radioactive materials or sources. These
Accurate measurements are crucial for various reasons:
Safety: In the survey conducted to assess potential radiation,
hazards to; and the safety of individuals and the environment must
be ensured. Accurate measurements help identify areas with elevated
radiation levels, allowing for appropriate safety measures and
precautions to be implemented.
For Environmental Monitoring: Radiometric surveys play a vital role
in monitoring environmental radioactivity, such as in nuclear power
plants, waste management facilities, or areas affected by nuclear
accidents. Accurate measurements are necessary to track any changes
in radiation levels over time and detect any potential environmental
contamination.
Resource Exploration: Particularly in the mining industry, to identify
and assess deposits of radioactive minerals such as uranium or
thorium. Accurate measurements are crucial for determining the
extent, grade, and economic viability of these deposits.
Radiometric surveys contribute to Scientific Research; in various
fields, including geology, archaeology, and environmental studies.
Accurate measurements provide reliable data for studying geological
formations, dating artefacts using radioactive isotopes, and
understanding natural radiation background levels,” highlights David.
David emphasizes that,to ensure the accuracy in radiometric surveys as
stated above, several factors should be considered, including
1. calibration of instruments
2. Appropriate sampling techniques,
3. proper shielding from external radiation sources,
4. Quality assurance and Quality control procedures,
5. Expertise of trained professionals who can accurately interpret and
analyse the collected data.
Image: courtesy
22 May-June issue l 2023 www.africasurveyorsonline.com