Thick source alpha counting using fused glass discs: corrections for loss of radon and polonium

Thick-source alpha counting can be used for the assay of low level U and Th in soils, rocks and similar materials. An effective method of preparing samples for this purpose is to fuse them in a lithium borate glass. The present paper discusses the loss of radon and polonium activity during fusion at elevated temperatures. A time dependent factor is given to correct for the loss of radon and polonium.