Stuart Hunt & Associates Ltd. has set up fully equipped radioisotope and low background sample analysis laboratories to supplement our field work. Focusing on top-quality results and an efficient turnaround time, we offer a wide range of services, reflecting the diverse needs of our clientele:
  • Sealed Radioactive Source Leak Testing
  • Liquid Scintillation Counting
  • Gross Alpha and Beta Sample Analysis
  • Analysis of Gas Samples for evidence of radioactivity
  • Delayed Neutron Counting (DNC) via the SLOWPOKE Nuclear Reactor at the University of Alberta

Turnaround time is a large concern of our laboratory and the right balance between quality results and return of the results to the client is actively sought. Our sealed radioactive source leak testing service averages a return of results of no more than three business days after receiving; our gamma spectroscopy service strives for a return of results in less than forty days.

Stuart Hunt & Associates Ltd. is an approved Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission agency for the collection and measurement of sealed radioactive source leak test samples for 29 different radioisotopes. Our equipment and leak test sample measurement procedures satisfy the criteria set out in the CNSC Regulatory Guide R-116 (Requirements for Leak Testing Selected Sealed Radiation Sources). An assortment of equipment is available to measure samples - ranging from simple single channel analyzers to complex multi-channel analyzers using liquid scintillation and gamma spectrometry counting techniques.

To complete sealed radioactive source leak tests, clients are provided with sample collection instructions. Trained personnel are also available to provide onsite leak test sample collection.

As a service to our clients, we maintain a database to keep track of when leak tests are due. When a scheduled due date approaches, leak test kits are automatically forwarded to the client. Those clients who require their leak test samples collected by one of our personnel are contacted and arrangements made.

We utilize a Beckman LS 5801 Liquid Scintillation Counter for sample containing alpha and beta emitting isotopes. This is an ideal analytical technique for measuring the radioactivity for samples known or suspected of being contaminated with radioisotopes such as Tritium or Carbon-14.

Other methods and equipment are used for measurement of radioactivity in a variety of materials - gases, liquids and swipes are a few of the more common materials submitted for testing.

If you require analysis of materials for radioactivity or basic leak testing service call toll-free at 1-800-661-4591.