Electrostatic charge distribution of 198Au-labeled monodisperse gold aerosols

Knowledge of the electrostatic properties of an aerosol may be essential in assessing its potential inhalation hazard. In inhalation studies with radioactive aerosols, the aerosol charge status may change in the course of transport due to the emission of alpha, beta, or gamma radiations. Electrostatic properties of an aerosol may also affect the performance of aerosol sampling devices and lead to false interpretation of the aerosol characteristics. A study was made of the self-charging of 198Au-labeled aerosol of monodisperse gold spheres due to the beta particles emitted by the label. A miniature aerosol charge and electrical mobility spectrometer were used. Some preliminary results are presented indicating that specific activity of the aerosol can affect the charge distribution. (U.S.)