# Comparison Between the NIST and the KEBS for the Determination of Air Kerma Calibration Coefficients for Narrow X-Ray Spectra and 137Cs Gamma-Ray Beams

## TL;DR

This paper compares air kerma calibration methods between NIST and KEBS using x-ray and cesium gamma-ray beams.

## Contribution

The study provides a comparative analysis of air kerma calibration coefficients between two institutions using standardized radiation beams.

## Key findings

- Calibration coefficients were compared using x-ray beams and cesium 137 gamma-ray beams.
- The comparison revealed the proficiency of KEBS in transferring air kerma calibrations.
- Results were based on average ratios of calibration coefficients.

## Abstract

Air kerma calibration coefficients for a reference class ionization chamber from narrow x-ray spectra and cesium 137 gamma-ray beams were compared between the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). A NIST reference-class transfer ionization chamber was calibrated by each laboratory in terms of the quantity air kerma in four x-ray reference radiation beams of energies between 80 kV and 150 kV and in a cesium 137 gamma-ray beam. The reference radiation qualities used for this comparison are described in detail in the ISO 4037 publication.[1]

The comparison began in September 2008 and was completed in March 2009. The results reveal the degree to which the participating calibration facility can demonstrate proficiency in transferring air kerma calibrations under the conditions of the said facility at the time of the measurements. The comparison of the calibration coefficients is based on the average ratios of calibration coefficients.