MARITA* – the single trace radioactivity thin-layer-chromatography detector – applies a linear analyser detector, which is sensitive over the entire chromatogram trace from start to finish, in other words an entire TLC lane is imaged. The entrance window can be open for H-3-applications or closed for C-14 or any other beta- or beta+ radiation emitting nuclides.
The imaging scanner uses a gas-filled proportional counter, which can detect all beta and gamma emitting isotopes. The system is equipped with Elysia-raytest LGC (low gas consumption) technology. Controlling the gas flow and consumption to achieve best measurement results with minimal gas consumption.
Beta+ (PET) emitting nuclides are detected very efficiently. Many gamma radiation-emitting nuclides emit beta-radiation as well. The pure gamma emitting nuclides can be detected as well because they produce some Compton electrons.
MARITA* has 2 simultaneous sensing electrodes: the delay line determines the location of the counted event; the pulse height of the counting wire is used for the electronic collimation. Thus, high energy beta radiation can be detected with high resolution using a narrow collimator window.
MARITA* can measure a single trace at once. The MARITA* detector is elevated after the end of the measurement and a new chromatogram plate can be placed for the subsequent measurement. The counting gas is a non-inflammable mixture of 90% Argon and 10% Methane, which is traded as P10 gas. Gas consumption is very low.
1 TLC plate of 50 x 200 mm up to 200 x 200 mm can be placed on MARITA*.
