Beta Backscattering Method

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Determine a variety of layers with beta particles

With the beta-backscatter method, you can measure the thickness of organic and inorganic layers on a wide variety of substrates using radiation from radioactive atoms. The measurement is non-destructive and, depending on the implementation, either non-contacting or contacting.

In the beta-backscattering process, an isotope source emits beta particles (electrons). The beta particles are produced by the radioactive decay (more precisely: beta decay) of the atomic nuclei. The beta particles penetrate the coating and base material of the workpiece and are scattered by the atoms of both materials. To measure the coating thickness, the number of backscattered electrons is counted. If the layer thickness changes, the number of backscattered electrons also changes.

This makes it possible to measure the thickness of coatings of any material on any base material, provided that the atomic numbers (nuclear charge numbers) of the coating and base material differ sufficiently. With the beta-backscatter method, only the uppermost layer of a coating system can be measured. The method is a very universally applicable coating thickness measurement method.

Where is this process used ?

Very thick gold coatings on nickel, bronze or ceramics for decorative parts, art objects or in aerospace applications
Silver in copper tubes for high-current contacts
Thin oil and lubricant films on steel parts as light corrosion protection
Thin layers of lacquer on electrical steel in the construction of transformers and electric motors