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research article

Cobalt-60 gamma-ray irradiator: Opens new doors to biological research at Davis

authors

R. J. Romani, University of California
E. C. Maxie, University of California
C. O. Hesse, University of California
N. F. Sommer, University of California

publication information

California Agriculture 16(3):2-4. DOI: 10.3733/ca.v016n03p2. March 1962.

Summary

Summary Not Available – First paragraph follows:

The new Cobalt-60 gamma-ray irradiator, recently installed at the Davis campus, is designed specifically for biological research. The first application of the new facility involves a study of possibilities for extending the storage life of fruits by irradiation. The irradiator has also been used in studies of genetic mutations and breeding programs for agricultural products. Desirable features for research include a large, uniform radiation field, temperature control, atmospheric modification, and safety of operation. Ten feet of de-ionized water in this pool-type unit maintains a constant radiation barrier against the 32,500 curies of Cobalt-60. The unit is one of the largest of its type in existence.

author affiliations

R. J. Romani is Assistant Pomologist, Department of Pomology, University of California, Davis; E. C. Maxie is Associate Pomologist, Department of Pomology, University of California, Davis; C. O. Hesse is Professor of Pomology and chairman of the Department of Pomology, University of California, Davis; N. F. Sommer is Assistant Pomologist, Department of Pomology, University of California, Davis;

author notes

AEC design personnel: B. Manowetz, O. Kuhl, A. Oltmann.

Research on irradiation of fruits is being supported by the Division of Isotopes Development and Division of Biology and Medicine of the Atomic Energy Commission.


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