Commissioning of a Gamma Counting Facility in the Kimballton Mine

The next generation of low background detectors will explore the frontiers of low energy neutrino physics, neutrinoless double beta decay, and direct dark matter searches. These experiments all require materials with minimal and tightly controlled radioactive contaminants. The KURF (Kimballton Underground Research Facility) is now home to a gamma counting facility, consisting of two HPGe (high purity germanium) detectors specifically designed for low background assay work. We discuss the technical and logistical considerations involved in the commissioning of a low background laboratory deep underground as well as our analysis techniques, including our sensitivity, efficiency, and activity calculations, which involve combining Monte Carlo and experimental data. Present status and sample analysis results will also be presented.