Evaluation of the self-absorption of 14C beta-rays in gel-suspension samples by Monte Carlo simulation

In order to investigate the self-absorption of the β-rays from 14C in a gel-suspension sample, the Monte Carlo code, simulating the sequence of stages occurring in the sample, has been developed. The trajectory of the electron was calculated by the continuous slowing down approximation and the multiple Coulomb scattering theory. The effects of the self-absorption, strong quenching and particle size distribution of calcium carbonate on the output counting efficiency and the shape of the energy spectrum were evaluated. (author)