Abstract: A calorimeter for use in measuring a sample is provided. The calorimeter may include a sample chamber for housing the sample therein. A separate reference chamber may not be present in the calorimeter. The calorimeter may also have a sample thermoelectric cooler in which heat from the sample chamber is transferred to the sample thermoelectric cooler. A reference thermoelectric cooler for use in detecting thermal noise may also be present, and outputs from the sample thermoelectric cooler and the reference thermoelectric cooler may be used in a control equation to determine the heat output of the sample.

Abstract: A calorimeter for use in assaying radioactive sources. The calorimeter includes a constant temperature shield and a series of temperature matched shields in which temperature control is provided by electrical resistance, thereby eliminating the need for a water jacket, while providing improved temperature and heat flow control. A labyrinth plug which eliminates air exchange between the sample well and the outside is used to seal the calorimeter. A computer control system monitors the calorimeter to reduce errors introduced by system fluctuations.