Abstract
Abstract This thesis investigates natural radioactivity of building materials in Taiwan with semi-empirical approach. Semi-empirical approach refers to detector measurement integrated with computer simulation. As computer simulation defines the detective efficiency of extensive sources no less accurate than detector measurement, this research uses computer simulation in combination with detector measurement to investigate natural radioactivity of building materials. For computer simulation, programs are developed based on Monte Carlo method. For detector, HPGe is chosen for its high resolution. Building materials sampled in this research include concrete, cement, glass, bricks and woods. Concrete, cement, and glass make up columns and walls in modern Taiwanese buildings, while bricks and woods consist of early Taiwanese houses. Few researches have been done on the radiation of these materials, due to their great variations in properties and sizes, which make it almost impossible to sample and test. The purpose of this thesis, despite the difficulties mentioned above, is to study the radioactivity of these common building materials, providing statistics for regulation institution and general public.