Introduction
In our everyday lives, numerous substances emit invisible radiation. For instance, vintage alarm clocks, certain rocks and minerals, and even some foods may produce radiation. Continuous exposure to high doses of radiation can pose risks to our well-being, making it crucial to monitor radiation levels.
Today, we embark on an exploration of the enigmatic world of radiation as we craft a practical and intriguing the radiation detector that can be used as a desktop clock ornament or as a handheld Geiger counter.
Working Principle
A Geiger counter (often referred to as a "Geiger-Miller counter" or simply "GM counter") is an instrument for detecting and measuring ionizing radiation. It is mainly used to measure alpha, beta and gamma radiation.
The following is the basic principle of operation of the Geiger counter:
1. Construction: The Geiger counter mainly consists of a metal or plastic shell, a gas-filled hollow tube and a center electrode. One end of the hollow tube is sealed and the other end usually has a thin window, such as molybdenum or other material, that allows radiation to enter.
2. Ionizing event: When radiation particles enter the counter and pass through the gas in the tube, they ionize the gas atoms. This produces positive ions and free electrons.
3. Amplification: There is a high voltage inside the Geiger-Miller tube. When electrons are released, they are attracted to the center electrode by this high voltage. As they move to the electrode, these electrons collide with more gas molecules, causing more electrons to be released. This chain reaction leads to an avalanche of electrons, allowing a large number of electrons to be produced by a single radiation particle.
4. Detection: When these electrons reach the center electrode, they generate a pulse of current. This pulse can be measured and amplified, and then counted or displayed.
5. Saturation: Each radiation particle entering the Geiger-Miller tube produces a current pulse of the same size, regardless of the energy of the radiation particle. This is why Geiger counters are used for counting, not for measuring radiation energy.
6. Reset: After each ionization event, the tube needs some time to reset so that the radiation can be detected again. During this time, the Geiger counter is "blind" to other radiation particles.
Geiger counters are widely used in scientific, medical, industrial, and other fields because they provide a simple, inexpensive, and effective way to detect and measure radiation.
Assembly
1. Install the lithium ion battery and the ESP32 board and connect them.
2. Then install the Geiger counter module and connect the ESP32 board.
3. Screw around the enclosure and you can even install a magnetic base.
4. Done!
There's a buzzer on the Geiger counter. As radiation levels rise, the sound sounds in a hurried fashion. This is an intuitive feedback mechanism that allows us to instantly recognize changes in radiation levels. If you don't like the sound, you can turn it off.
If you notice a sudden spike in radiation levels, check to see if your environment contains items that could produce radiation, such as vintage fluorescent clocks, ore samples, or other radioactive materials.
You can place it on your desk, in your living room, or wherever you wish to detect radiation levels at any time. Not only does this ornament enhance the technology of your life, it also helps you confirm the safety of your living environment.
Conclusion
Before concluding, I need to emphasize one point: This product is not a professional measuring instrument. It is solely designed for principle exploration and educational demonstrations. It should not be used for direct radiation dose measurements that is elated to personal safety.
I hope you find this creative endeavor enjoyable. If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free us to leave a message! Lastly let’s hope we never hear that buzzer sounding in a hurried fashion!
