SEDL / STP / STP341-EB / STP41748S



Fast Neutron Dosimetry for Long-Term Irradiations

Ritzman, R. L.
Battelle Memorial Inst., Columbus,Ohio

Lieberman, R.
Battelle Memorial Inst., Columbus,Ohio

Kircher, J. F.
Battelle Memorial Inst., Columbus,Ohio

Sunderman, D. N.
Battelle Memorial Inst., Columbus,Ohio


Pages: 10    Published: Jan 1963


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Source: STP341-EB


Abstract

The use of fast neutron threshold detectors for measuring the fast neutron (neutrons with energies greater than 1 Mev) flux in nuclear reactors takes advantage of the (n, p) and (n,α) reactions which various nuclides undergo when exposed to high-energy neutrons. In order to qualify as a good dosimeter system the reactant nucleus must have a convenient and well-known reaction cross-section and the decay characteristics of the product nucleus must be well known. Other desirable characteristics include a chemical state which facilitates handling of the dosimeter and nuclear properties which allow simple radioassay procedures. The chief consideration for a dosimeter to be used for monitoring long irradiations is the halflife of the product nuclide. It should be long enough so that a significant fraction of that activity produced early in the irradiation is present at the conclusion of irradiation. This usually leads to selection of a system in which the product nuclide's half-life is at least twice the length of irradiation, although it is possible to use the system when the irradiation time is nearly equal to the half-life provided the calendar time over which the irradiation is made and the decay time from end of irradiation to analysis are not excessive.


Paper ID: STP41748S
Committee/Subcommittee: E10.07
DOI: 10.1520/STP41748S
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