SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1989
STP10095S

Calibration Problems in the Direct Measurement of Radiation Absorbed Dose

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Radiation absorbed dose calorimetry is a direct method for measuring radiation energy deposition in a nuclear reactor environment. It is superior to indirect dosimetry methods, although the validity of the calorimetry technique is crucially dependent on the calibration procedures that are employed.

In this paper calorimeter calibration methods and measurement procedures are critically examined. Calibration problems are considered in the context of three aspects of calorimetry measurements. The first is concerned with the compatibility of the dosimeter with the radiation field. Radiation disequilibrium can lead to significant measurement errors. Errors of instrumentation are then considered, and the problems of temperature stability and electronic noise are emphasized. The bulk of the paper is devoted to an examination of heat transfer aspects of the calibration problem. This area, which has sometimes been ignored, is considered in terms of heat transfer mechanisms and conditions that may lead to significant measurement errors. Calorimeter calibration problems are illustrated with examples from practical calorimetry measurements.

Author Information

Mason, JA
Imperial College, Ascot, Berkshire, England
Bainbridge, N
Imperial College, Ascot, Berkshire, England
Heffer, PJH
CEGB, Berkeley Nuclear Laboratories, Berkeley, Gloucestershire, England
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Developed by Committee: E10
Pages: 359–369
DOI: 10.1520/STP10095S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-5069-0
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-1184-4