Effect of measurement geometry on mass attenuation coefficients of solid absorbers for beta radiation

144Ce-144Pr beta transmission curves of 10 target elements (Al to Pb) were determined in different geometrical arrangements using an end-window counter. The mass attenuation coefficient was found to be dependent only on two essential parameters, i. e. the solid angles of the incidence geometry and the detection geometry, respectively. The few so far existing results of other authors agree well with the regularities found. The earlier discussed periodic dependence of the mass attenuation coefficient on the atomic number could not be confirmed in any geometry examined. (author)