NUCLEAR TRACK ANALYSIS BY DIGITAL IMAGING

A digital image analysis system (DIAS) is described for evaluation of etched nuclear damaged tracks in plastics. Early efforts were directed at automated measurements of the ellipticity and area of etch tracks in CR-39 track areas related to particle energy. Discrimination was ma de between etch tracks from alpha particles emitted by Pu-239, Am-241 and Cm-244 with goad linearity of response for time of exposure. The D IAS could also discriminate between etched alpha particle tracks and e tched surface scratches and other chemical artefacts. Eventually, it i s hoped to expand the image enhancement and shape discrimination capab ilities to measure the size and activity of 'hot' alpha-emitting parti cles.