The Application of Computers in Radiochemistry

Abstract

This chapter provides an introduction to on-line computing, and is intended as a summary of basic concepts to support the rest of the book. The aim is therefore to outline principles, and to describe a few typical examples or applications rather than to provide an extensive review of the literature. Computers now fill a very varied role in most branches of radiochemistry, and applications range from the direct use of computers as instruments (i.e. on-line computing) to complex data manipulation (off-line applications). To provide some coherence in the treatment, the major part of this chapter focusses on gamma-spectrometry and activation methods. An outline is given of the basic principles of multichannel analysers, and a simple account of the operation and programming of a small computer. This is followed by a fairly detailed description of the organisation, operation and use of a small computer as a single gamma-spectrometer, to illustrate techniques, advantages and limitations. Further sections summarise alternative methods of using dedicated computer units, for example for fully automated activation systems, and the use of medium-sized computers for simultaneous operation as several independent gamma-spectrometers. A final section summarises computer applications in some other branches of radiochemistry.