Device for adsorbing exhaled radioactive gases and process

Claim 1

An adsorption unit for the adsorption of a noble radioactive gas from a gas mixture, especially the exhalations from an animal, the unit comprising an outer case having an inner compartment; a portable cartridge magazine removably receivable within said compartment and comprising a plurality of at least three closed chambers, each chamber containing activated carbon solid adsorbent for the radioactive gas, the plurality of chambers being in fluid flow series connection, but the solid adsorbent within each chamber being out of direct contact with the solid adsorbent in any other chamber; an inlet to the first, or upstream chamber; (and) an outlet from the last or downstream chamber; and radioactive shielding material associated with at least some of the wall portions of said outer case, whereby said outer case forms a storage unit which substantially confines radiation emanating from said cartridge magazine, said cartridge magazine being removable from said outer case and replaceable by another like cartridge magazine upon the expiration of the life span thereof.