Fast neutron spectrometry and dosimetry; Spectrometrie et dosimetrie des neutrons rapides

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Blaize, S; Ailloud, J; Mariani, J; Millot, J P [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1958-07-01

We have studied fast neutron spectrometry and dosimetry through the recoil protons they produce in hydrogenated samples. In spectrometric, we used nuclear emulsions, in dosimetric, we used polyethylene coated with zinc sulphide and placed before a photomultiplier. (author)Fren. [French] Nous avons etudie la spectrometrie et la dosimetrie des neutrons rapides en utilisant les protons de recul qu'ils produisent dans une matiere hydrogenee. En spectrometrie, nous avons employe des emulsions nucleaires, en dosimetrie, du polyethylene recouvert de sulfure de zinc place devant un photomultiplicateur. (auteur)

Neutron reference spectra measurements with the Bonner multi-spheres spectrometer; Medidas de espectros de referencia de neutrons com o espectrometro de multiesferas de Bonner

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lemos Junior, Roberto Mendonca de

2004-07-01

This paper aims to define a procedure to use the Bonner Multisphere Spectrometer with a {sup 6}LiI(Eu) detector in order to determine of neutron spectra. It was measured {sup 238}PuBe spectra and same of reference ({sup 241}AmBe, {sup 252}Cf e {sup 252}Cf+D{sub 2}O) published in ISO 8529-1 (2001) Norm. The data were processed by a computer program (BUNKI), which presents the results in neutrons energy fluency. Each input parameter of the program was studied in order to establish their influence in the adjustment result. The environment dose equivalent rate obtained placing the detector 1 m from the {sup 241}AmBe source was 122 {+-} 4 {mu}Sv/h with 7% of uncertainty and 95% of confidence level. The procedure established in this work was tested with the {sup 238}PuBe spectrum, obtaining an environment dose equivalent rate of 286 {+-} 9 {mu}Sv/h, 8% lower than the value measured experimentally used as reference. Through this procedure will be possible to measure neutron spectra in different work places where neutrons sources are used. Knowing these spectra, it will be possible to evaluate which area monitors, are more suitable, as well as, to study better the response of individual neutron monitors, as for instance, to obtain a conversion coefficient more appropriate to the albedo dosimeter used in different work places. As the measurements need a long time to be accomplished, the work optimization is fundamental to reduce the exposing time of the Bonner spectrometer operator. For this reason, an important parameter examined in this paper was the possibility of reducing the number of spheres used during the measurement without changing the final result. Considering the radiation protection standards, this parameter has a huge importance when the measurements are performed in work places where the neutron fluency and gamma rate offer risks to the operator's health, as for instance, in nuclear centrals. Studying this parameter, it was possible to conclude that

Neutron spectrometry with Bonner spheres for area monitoring in particle accelerators

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bedogni, R.

2011-01-01

Selecting the instruments to determine the operational quantities in the neutron fields produced by particle accelerators involves a combination of aspects, which is peculiar to these environments: the energy distribution of the neutron field, the continuous or pulsed time structure of the beam, the presence of other radiations to which the neutron instruments could have significant response and the large variability in the dose rate, which can be observed when moving from areas near the beam line to free-access areas. The use of spectrometric techniques in support of traditional instruments is highly recommended to improve the accuracy of dosimetric evaluations. The multi-sphere or Bonner Sphere Spectrometer (BSS) is certainly the most used device, due to characteristics such as the wide energy range, large variety of active and passive detectors suited for different workplaces, good photon discrimination and the simple signal management. Disadvantages are the poor energy resolution, weight and need to sequentially irradiate the spheres, leading to usually long measurement sessions. Moreover, complex unfolding analyses are needed to obtain the neutron spectra. This work is an overview of the BSS for area monitoring in particle accelerators. (authors)

Neutron and gamma-ray spectra of 239PuBe and 241AmBe

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vega-Carrillo, H.R.; Manzanares-Acuna, Eduardo; Becerra-Ferreiro, A.M.; Carrillo-Nunez, Aureliano

2002-01-01

Neutron and gamma-ray spectra of 239 PuBe and 241 AmBe were measured and their dosimetric features were calculated. Neutron spectra were measured using a multisphere neutron spectrometer with a 6 LiI(Eu) scintillator. The 239 PuBe neutron spectrum was measured in an open environment, while the 241 AmBe neutron spectrum was measured in a closed environment. Gamma-ray spectra were measured using a NaI(Tl) scintillator using the same experimental conditions for both sources. The effect of measuring conditions for the 241 AmBe neutron spectrum indicates the presence of epithermal and thermal neutrons. The low-resolution neutron spectra obtained with the multisphere spectrometer allows one to calculate the dosimetric features of neutron sources. At 100 cm both sources produce approximately the same count rate as that of the 4.4 MeV gamma-ray per unit of alpha emitter activity

Spectrometry of degraded neutrons with SSNTDs

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gopalani, Deepak; Kumar, S.; Jodha, A.S.; Reddy, A.R.

1993-01-01

Considerable interest has grown during the last decade in the use of solid state nuclear track detectors (SSNTDs) for routine neutron monitoring and dosimetry work. In addition, using these detectors neutron spectrometry has also been undertaken by some investigators. In spectrometry the energy of neutrons was determined either from minor axis of proton tracks observed on the surface of detector or from the use of polyethylene radiators of selected thickness with varying etching time. Using this latter method in the present work fast neutron spectrometry is made. The method involves the measurement of etch induction time, thickness of removed critical layer for constant radiator thickness with varying etching time. Besides a computer programme has been developed for the calculation of neutron sensitivity at different critical removal layers. The degraded neutron spectra of 252 Cf with shield materials of different thickness but of same composition and shield materials of same thickness but of different compositions have been obtained. The study shows that SSNTD films can be used for recording the transmitted neutron spectra from different shield materials. This spectrometric capability added to the technique advantages of SSNTDs such as integrating nature and small size make them important for nuclear engineering applications. (author). 7 refs., 4 figs., 1 tab

Spectrometry using the PTB neutron multisphere spectrometer (NEMUS) at flight altitudes and at ground level

CERN Document Server

Wiegel, B; Matzke, M; Schrewe, U J; Wittstock, J

2002-01-01

Bonner sphere measurements are presented for flights at altitudes of up to 12 km and geomagnetic latitudes between 26 deg.N and 86 deg.N and compared with results obtained by several survey meters. As an example of the natural neutron background near sea level, results from a recent longterm measurement campaign performed at the PTB site using an extended spectrometer are presented. The dependence of neutron fluence and ambient dose equivalent on the atmospheric pressure is demonstrated.

Neutron fluence spectrometry using disk activation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Loevestam, Goeran; Hult, Mikael; Fessler, Andreas; Gasparro, Joel; Kockerols, Pierre; Okkinga, Klaas; Tagziria, Hamid; Vanhavere, Filip; Wieslander, J.S. Elisabeth

2009-01-01

A simple and robust detector for spectrometry of environmental neutrons has been developed. The technique is based on neutron activation of a series of different metal disks followed by low-level gamma-ray spectrometry of the activated disks and subsequent neutron spectrum unfolding. The technique is similar to foil activation but here the applied neutron fluence rates are much lower than usually in the case of foil activation. The detector has been tested in quasi mono-energetic neutron fields with fluence rates in the order of 1000-10000 cm -2 s -1 , where the obtained spectra showed good agreement with spectra measured using a Bonner sphere spectrometer. The detector has also been tested using an AmBe source and at a neutron fluence rate of about 40 cm -2 s -1 , again, a good agreement with the assumed spectrum was achieved

Neutron fluence spectrometry using disk activation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Loevestam, Goeran [EC-JRC-Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements (IRMM), Retieseweg 111, B-2440 Geel (Belgium)], E-mail: goeran.loevestam@ec.europa.eu; Hult, Mikael; Fessler, Andreas; Gasparro, Joel; Kockerols, Pierre; Okkinga, Klaas [EC-JRC-Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements (IRMM), Retieseweg 111, B-2440 Geel (Belgium); Tagziria, Hamid [EC-JRC-Institute for the Protection and the Security of the Citizen (IPSC), Via E. Fermi 1, I-21020 Ispra (Vatican City State, Holy See,) (Italy); Vanhavere, Filip [SCK-CEN, Boeretang, 2400 Mol (Belgium); Wieslander, J.S. Elisabeth [EC-JRC-Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements (IRMM), Retieseweg 111, B-2440 Geel (Belgium); Department of Physics, P.O. Box 35 (YFL), FIN-40014, University of Jyvaeskylae (Finland)

2009-01-15

A simple and robust detector for spectrometry of environmental neutrons has been developed. The technique is based on neutron activation of a series of different metal disks followed by low-level gamma-ray spectrometry of the activated disks and subsequent neutron spectrum unfolding. The technique is similar to foil activation but here the applied neutron fluence rates are much lower than usually in the case of foil activation. The detector has been tested in quasi mono-energetic neutron fields with fluence rates in the order of 1000-10000 cm{sup -2} s{sup -1}, where the obtained spectra showed good agreement with spectra measured using a Bonner sphere spectrometer. The detector has also been tested using an AmBe source and at a neutron fluence rate of about 40 cm{sup -2} s{sup -1}, again, a good agreement with the assumed spectrum was achieved.

Neutron and gamma-ray spectra of {sup 239}PuBe and {sup 241}AmBe

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vega-Carrillo, H.R. E-mail: rvega@cantera.reduaz.mx; Manzanares-Acuna, Eduardo; Becerra-Ferreiro, A.M.; Carrillo-Nunez, Aureliano

2002-08-01

Neutron and gamma-ray spectra of {sup 239}PuBe and {sup 241}AmBe were measured and their dosimetric features were calculated. Neutron spectra were measured using a multisphere neutron spectrometer with a {sup 6}LiI(Eu) scintillator. The {sup 239}PuBe neutron spectrum was measured in an open environment, while the {sup 241}AmBe neutron spectrum was measured in a closed environment. Gamma-ray spectra were measured using a NaI(Tl) scintillator using the same experimental conditions for both sources. The effect of measuring conditions for the {sup 241}AmBe neutron spectrum indicates the presence of epithermal and thermal neutrons. The low-resolution neutron spectra obtained with the multisphere spectrometer allows one to calculate the dosimetric features of neutron sources. At 100 cm both sources produce approximately the same count rate as that of the 4.4 MeV gamma-ray per unit of alpha emitter activity.

Velocity-space sensitivity of neutron spectrometry measurements

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Jacobsen, Asger Schou; Salewski, Mirko; Eriksson, J.

2015-01-01

Neutron emission spectrometry (NES) measures the energies of neutrons produced in fusion reactions. Here we present velocity-space weight functions for NES and neutron yield measurements. Weight functions show the sensitivity as well as the accessible regions in velocity space for a given range...

Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry with ANNs

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vega C, H. R.; Hernandez D, V. M.; Gallego, E.; Lorente, A.

2009-10-01

Artificial neural networks technology has been applied to unfold the neutron spectra and to calculate the effective dose, the ambient equivalent dose, and the personal dose equivalent for 252 Cf and 241 AmBe neutron sources. A Bonner sphere spectrometry with a 6 LiI(Eu) scintillator was utilized to measure the count rates of the spheres that were utilized as input in two artificial neural networks, one for spectrometry and another for dosimetry. Spectra and the ambient dose equivalent were also obtained with BUNKIUT code and the UTA4 response matrix. With both procedures spectra and ambient dose equivalent agrees in less than 10%. (author)

Neutron dosimetry; Dosimetria de neutrons

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fratin, Luciano

1993-12-31

A neutron irradiation facility was designed and built in order to establish a procedure for calibrating neutron monitors and dosemeters. A 185 GBq {sup 241} Am Be source of known is used as a reference source. The irradiation facility using this source in the air provides neutron dose rates between 9 nSv s{sup -1} and 0,5 {sup {mu}}Sv s{sup -1}. A calibrated 50 nSv s{sup -1} thermal neutron field is obtained by using a specially designed paraffin block in conjunction with the {sup 241} Am Be source. A Bonner multisphere spectrometer was calibrated, using a procedure based on three methods proposed by international standards. The unfold {sup 241} Am Be neutron spectrum was determined from the Bonner spheres data and resulted in a good agreement with expected values for fluence rate, dose rate and mean energy. A dosimetric system based on the electrochemical etching of CR-39 was developed for personal dosimetry. The dosemeter badge using a (n,{alpha}) converter, the etching chamber and high frequency power supply were designed and built specially for this project. The electrochemical etching (ECE) parameters used were: a 6N KOH solution, 59 deg C, 20 kV{sub pp} cm{sup -1}, 2,0 kHz, 3 hours of ECE for thermal and intermediate neutrons and 6 hours for fast neutrons. The calibration factors for thermal, intermediate and fast neutrons were determined for this personal dosemeter. The sensitivities determined for the developed dosimetric system were (1,46{+-} 0,09) 10{sup 4} tracks cm{sup -2} mSv{sup -1} for thermal neutrons, (9{+-}3) 10{sup 2} tracks cm{sup -2} mSV{sup -1} for intermediate neutrons and (26{+-}4) tracks cm{sup -2} mSv{sup -1} for fast neutrons. The lower and upper limits of detection were respectively 0,002 mSv and 0,6 mSv for thermal neutrons, 0,04 mSv and 8 mSv for intermediate neutrons and 1 mSv and 12 mSv for fast neutrons. In view of the 1990`s ICRP recommendations, it is possible to conclude that the personal dosemeter described in this work is

Neutron dosimetry; Dosimetria de neutrons

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fratin, Luciano

1994-12-31

A neutron irradiation facility was designed and built in order to establish a procedure for calibrating neutron monitors and dosemeters. A 185 GBq {sup 241} Am Be source of known is used as a reference source. The irradiation facility using this source in the air provides neutron dose rates between 9 nSv s{sup -1} and 0,5 {sup {mu}}Sv s{sup -1}. A calibrated 50 nSv s{sup -1} thermal neutron field is obtained by using a specially designed paraffin block in conjunction with the {sup 241} Am Be source. A Bonner multisphere spectrometer was calibrated, using a procedure based on three methods proposed by international standards. The unfold {sup 241} Am Be neutron spectrum was determined from the Bonner spheres data and resulted in a good agreement with expected values for fluence rate, dose rate and mean energy. A dosimetric system based on the electrochemical etching of CR-39 was developed for personal dosimetry. The dosemeter badge using a (n,{alpha}) converter, the etching chamber and high frequency power supply were designed and built specially for this project. The electrochemical etching (ECE) parameters used were: a 6N KOH solution, 59 deg C, 20 kV{sub pp} cm{sup -1}, 2,0 kHz, 3 hours of ECE for thermal and intermediate neutrons and 6 hours for fast neutrons. The calibration factors for thermal, intermediate and fast neutrons were determined for this personal dosemeter. The sensitivities determined for the developed dosimetric system were (1,46{+-} 0,09) 10{sup 4} tracks cm{sup -2} mSv{sup -1} for thermal neutrons, (9{+-}3) 10{sup 2} tracks cm{sup -2} mSV{sup -1} for intermediate neutrons and (26{+-}4) tracks cm{sup -2} mSv{sup -1} for fast neutrons. The lower and upper limits of detection were respectively 0,002 mSv and 0,6 mSv for thermal neutrons, 0,04 mSv and 8 mSv for intermediate neutrons and 1 mSv and 12 mSv for fast neutrons. In view of the 1990`s ICRP recommendations, it is possible to conclude that the personal dosemeter described in this work is

Fast neutron spectrometry and dosimetry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Blaize, S.; Ailloud, J.; Mariani, J.; Millot, J.P.

1958-01-01

We have studied fast neutron spectrometry and dosimetry through the recoil protons they produce in hydrogenated samples. In spectrometric, we used nuclear emulsions, in dosimetric, we used polyethylene coated with zinc sulphide and placed before a photomultiplier. (author) [fr

Neutron activation spectrometry and neutron activation analysis in analytical geochemistry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dulski, P.; Moeller, P.

1975-07-01

The present report is to show the geochemists who are interested in neutron activation spectrometry (NAS) and neutron activation analysis (NAA) which analytical possibilities these methods offer him. As a review of these analytical possibilities, a lieterature compolation is given which is subdivided into two groups: 1) rock (basic, intermediary, acid, sediments, soils and nuds, diverse minerals, tectites, meteorites and lunar material). 2) ore (Al, Au, Be, Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo, Fe, Pb, Pt, Sn, Ti, W, Zn, Zr, U and phosphate ore, polymetallic ores, fluorite, monazite and diverse ores). The applied methods as well as the determinable elements in the given materials can be got from the tables. On the whole, the literature evaluation carried out makes it clear that neutron activation spectrometry is a very useful multi-element method for the analysis of rocks. The analysis of ores, however, is subjected to great limitations. As rock analysis is very frequently of importance in prospecting for ore deposits, the NAS proves to be extremely useful for this very field of application. (orig./LH) [de

Neutron spectrometry for reactor applications: status, limitations, and future directions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gold, R.

1975-08-01

The ability of ''state-of-the-art'' reactor neutron spectrometry to provide definitive environmental results required for high fluence radiation damage experiments is reviewed. A formal definition of the neutron component is presented as well as general considerations which accrue from both this definition and the existence of the mixed radiation field generally encountered in reactors. A description of four selected methods of reactor neutron spectrometry is included, namely Proton Recoil (PR) methods, Time-Of-Flight (TOF) methods, the 6 Li(n,α) 3 H coincidence method, and Multiple Foil Activation (MFA) methods. These selected methods are compared. Future requirements and directions for reactor neutron spectrometry are discussed. In particular, the needs of future CTR research are stressed and the He 4 - recoil proportional counter spectroscopy method is advanced as a means of meeting these future requirements. 50 references. (auth)

Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry using NSDAAN

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Martinez B, M. R.; Vega C, H. R.; Ortiz R, J. M.

2009-10-01

The reconstruction of neutron spectra from count rates of a Bonner spheres spectrometric system is performed using various methods such as Monte Carlo methods, the parameterization and iterative methods. The weight of the Bonner spheres spectrometric system, the procedure for the reconstruction of the spectra, the need of an experienced user, the high consumer of time, the need of use a reconstruction code as the BUNKI, SAND, among others, and the resolution of the spectrum are some problems that this system presents. This has motivated the development of complementary procedures such as maximum entropy, genetic algorithms and artificial neural networks. In previous work, has reported a new method called robust design methodology of artificial neural networks, to construct various network topologies capable of solving the problems of neutron spectrometry and dosimetry, however, due to the newness of this technology, be noted that there are not tools to end-user that allow test and validate the designed networks. This paper presents a software for the neutron spectrometry and dosimetry, designed from the information extracted of an artificial neural network designed by robust design methodology of artificial neural networks. This tool has the following characteristics: was designed in a user graphical interface easy to use, requires not knowledge of neural networks or neutron spectrometry by the user; execution speed of the application; unlike the deconvolution codes are not required to select an initial spectrum for the spectrum reconstruction; as an additional element to this tool, besides the spectrum, the calculation is performed simultaneous to H(10), E, H p , s (10,θ) from just counting rates from a Bonner spheres spectrometric system. (author)

Uncertainties related to numerical methods for neutron spectra unfolding

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Glodic, S.; Ninkovic, M.; Adarougi, N.A.

1987-10-01

One of the often used techniques for neutron detection in radiation protection utilities is the Bonner multisphere spectrometer. Besides its advantages and universal applicability for evaluating integral parameters of neutron fields in health physics practices, the outstanding problems of the method are data analysis and the accuracy of the results. This paper briefly discusses some numerical problems related to neutron spectra unfolding, such as uncertainty of the response matrix as a source of error, and the possibility of real time data reduction using spectrometers. (author)

Evaluation of response matrix of a multisphere neutron spectrometer ...

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Abstract. Neutron energy responses of water sphere spectrometers (WSS) to 30 MeV have been calculated by means of Monte Carlo calculations, using the computer code MCNP4C with ENDF/. B-VI.0 neutron cross-section. The calculations have been performed for 3He detector (typical SP9) placed inside 2, 3, 5, 8, ...

Evaluation of room-scattered neutrons at the JNC Tokai neutron reference field

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yoshida, Tadayoshi; Tsujimura, Norio [Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Inst., Tokai, Ibaraki (Japan). Tokai Works; Oyanagi, Katsumi [Japan Radiation Engineering Co., Ltd., Hitachi, Ibaraki (Japan)

2002-09-01

Neutron reference fields for calibrating neutron-measuring devices in JNC Tokai Works are produced by using radionuclide neutron sources, {sup 241}Am-Be and {sup 252}Cf sources. The reference field for calibration includes scattered neutrons from the material surrounding sources, wall, floor and ceiling of the irradiation room. It is, therefore, necessary to evaluate the scattered neutrons contribution and their energy spectra at reference points. Spectral measurements were performed with a set of Bonner multi-sphere spectrometers and the reference fields were characterized in terms of spectral composition and the fractions of room-scattered neutrons. In addition, two techniques stated in ISO 10647, the shadow-cone method and the polynomial fit method, for correcting the contributions from the room-scattered neutrons to the readings of neutron survey instruments were compared. It was found that the two methods gave an equivalent result within a deviation of 3.3% at a source-to-detector distance from 50cm to 500cm. (author)

Evaluation of room-scattered neutrons at the JNC Tokai neutron reference field

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yoshida, Tadayoshi; Tsujimura, Norio

2002-01-01

Neutron reference fields for calibrating neutron-measuring devices in JNC Tokai Works are produced by using radionuclide neutron sources, 241 Am-Be and 252 Cf sources. The reference field for calibration includes scattered neutrons from the material surrounding sources, wall, floor and ceiling of the irradiation room. It is, therefore, necessary to evaluate the scattered neutrons contribution and their energy spectra at reference points. Spectral measurements were performed with a set of Bonner multi-sphere spectrometers and the reference fields were characterized in terms of spectral composition and the fractions of room-scattered neutrons. In addition, two techniques stated in ISO 10647, the shadow-cone method and the polynomial fit method, for correcting the contributions from the room-scattered neutrons to the readings of neutron survey instruments were compared. It was found that the two methods gave an equivalent result within a deviation of 3.3% at a source-to-detector distance from 50cm to 500cm. (author)

Peculiarities of the modern neutron spectrometry

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Abstract. Neutron spectrometry provides many branches of science and technology with the .... of this isotope is close to constant for some intervals of atomic mass. For real ... There are nice reviews on these processes [8] and [9]. The data of ...

Measurements of neutron spectrum from uranium converter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ninkovic, M.; Sotic, O.; Marinkovic, S.

1978-01-01

The procedure for determination of energetic distribution of neutrons by the multisphere technique is given. The theoretical basis and features of the method are explained. The spectral distribution of neutrons emerging from the neutron converter constructed at the bare reactor assembly RB, has been determined applying the existing computer programme and literature data for the energetic dependence functions of spheres of various diameters. The obtained spectral distribution has a specific maximum in the domain of fast neutrons, justifying thus the reacton for the construction of the converter. The neutron spectrum data obtained and given in this report are very important for the use of the converter in neutron dosimetry and radiation protection, as well as in the radiobiology, shielding, reactor physics etc. (author)

Neutron Spectrometry for Radiation Protection Purposes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

McDonald, Joseph C.

2001-01-01

Determination of the dose equivalent is required for radiation protection purposes, however such a determination is quite difficult for neutron radiation. In order to perform accurate dosimetric determinations, it is necessary to acquire information about the neutron fluence spectrum in the workplace as well as the reference radiations used to calibrate dosimetric instruments. This information can then be used to select the appropriate dosimetric instrument, the optimum calibration condition or to establish correction factors that account for the differences in calibration and workplace conditions. For quite some time, neutron spectrometry has been used for these purposes. A brief review of the applications of spectrometers in radiation protection and some recommendations for further development are given here

Neutron spectrometry for radiation protection purposes

CERN Document Server

McDonald, J C; Alberts, W G

2002-01-01

Determination of the dose equivalent is required for radiation protection purposes, however such a determination is quite difficult for neutron radiation. In order to perform accurate dosimetric determinations, it is advantageous to acquire information about the neutron fluence spectrum in the workplace as well as the reference radiations used to calibrate dosimetric instruments. This information can then be used to select the appropriate dosimetric instrument, the optimum calibration condition or to establish correction factors that account for the differences in calibration and workplace conditions. For quite some time, neutron spectrometry has been used for these purposes. A brief review of the applications of spectrometers in radiation protection and some recommendations for further development are given here.

Correlation of Neutron Data Taken at Commercial Nuclear Sites

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rathbun, L. A.; Endres, G. W.R.

1983-10-01

In this report, data from neutron measurement and dosimetry studies performed by Pacific Northwest Laboratory, the Environmental Measurements Laboratory, and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute are examined and compared. The purpose of this data correlation effort is to determine whether useful relationships exist between the actual neutron dose equivalent in a typical commercial nuclear power reactor and various measurement parameters, such as ratios of the response of 9-in. to 3-in. spheres, neutron/gamma ratios, albedo dosimeter response and neutron spectrometer readings. In most neutron radiation fields found in the reactors visited, the response of albedo dosimeters can be brought into reasonable agreement with dose equivalents measured with multispheres, tissue equivalent proportional counters (TEPCs) or remmeters. Because the responses of the remmeters, like the responses of albedo dosimeters, are energy dependent, it is preferable to correct the responses of the albedo dosimeters to agree with dose equivalents measured with either TEPCs or multispheres. If one of these laboratory systems has been used to measure neutron dose equivalents at a specific pressurized water reactor, a calculated average albedo dosimeter correction factor can be used for most locations at that reactor. However, if the measured 9-in. to 3-in. remmeter ratio is greater than 0.20, it is advisable to use a plot of 9-in. to 3-in. remmeter ratios versus albedo dosimeter correction factors to obtain an albedo dosimeter correction factor. Because 9-in. to 3-in. remmeter ratios at boiling water reactors are typically greater than 0.20, the latter approach applies to this type of reactor.

Evaluation of neutron dosimetry techniques for well-logging operations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cummings, F.M.; Haggard, D.L.; Endres, G.W.R.

1985-07-01

Neutron dose and energy spectral measurements from 241 AmBe and a 14 MeV neutron generator were performed at a well-logging laboratory. The measurement technique included the tissue equivalent proportional counter, multisphere, two types of remmeters and five types of personnel neutron dosimeters. Several source configurations were used to attempt to relate data to field situations. The results of the measurements indicated that the thermoluminescent albedo dosimeter was the most appropriate personnel neutron dosimeter, and that the most appropriate calibration source would be the source normally employed in the field with the calibration source being used in the unmoderated configuration. 7 refs., 35 figs., 14 tabs

High-Resolution Fast-Neutron Spectrometry for Arms Control and Treaty Verification

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

David L. Chichester; James T. Johnson; Edward H. Seabury

2012-07-01

Many nondestructive nuclear analysis techniques have been developed to support the measurement needs of arms control and treaty verification, including gross photon and neutron counting, low- and high-resolution gamma spectrometry, time-correlated neutron measurements, and photon and neutron imaging. One notable measurement technique that has not been extensively studied to date for these applications is high-resolution fast-neutron spectrometry (HRFNS). Applied for arms control and treaty verification, HRFNS has the potential to serve as a complimentary measurement approach to these other techniques by providing a means to either qualitatively or quantitatively determine the composition and thickness of non-nuclear materials surrounding neutron-emitting materials. The technique uses the normally-occurring neutrons present in arms control and treaty verification objects of interest as an internal source of neutrons for performing active-interrogation transmission measurements. Most low-Z nuclei of interest for arms control and treaty verification, including 9Be, 12C, 14N, and 16O, possess fast-neutron resonance features in their absorption cross sections in the 0.5- to 5-MeV energy range. Measuring the selective removal of source neutrons over this energy range, assuming for example a fission-spectrum starting distribution, may be used to estimate the stoichiometric composition of intervening materials between the neutron source and detector. At a simpler level, determination of the emitted fast-neutron spectrum may be used for fingerprinting 'known' assemblies for later use in template-matching tests. As with photon spectrometry, automated analysis of fast-neutron spectra may be performed to support decision making and reporting systems protected behind information barriers. This paper will report recent work at Idaho National Laboratory to explore the feasibility of using HRFNS for arms control and treaty verification applications, including simulations

NEMUS--the PTB Neutron Multisphere Spectrometer Bonner spheres and more

CERN Document Server

Wiegel, B

2002-01-01

The original Bonner sphere spectrometer as it is used and characterized by PTB consists of 12 polyethylene spheres with diameters from 7.62 cm (3'') to 45.72 cm (18'') and a sup 3 He-filled spherical proportional counter used as a central thermal-neutron-sensitive detector and as a bare or cadmium-shielded bare detector. In this paper, a set of four new spheres made of polyethylene with copper or lead inlets is introduced. All spheres are less than 18 kg in mass and their responses to high energy neutrons increase with energy as a result of the increasing (n,xn) cross-sections of copper and lead. The fluence response matrix was calculated up to 10 GeV using an extended neutron cross-section library (LA150) and the MCNP(X) Monte Carlo code. Calibration measurements with neutron energies up to 60 MeV were used to compare the calculated response functions to measured values. For measurements outside the laboratory, a miniaturized, battery-powered electronic set-up was developed. This system with the additional, ...

Modulation Spectrometry Of Neutrons With Diffractometry Applications

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hiismaki, P.

1997-01-01

Modulation spectrometry of neutrons refers to a measuring principle, characterized by classification of neutron histories in a probabilistic way, not the usual deterministic way. In order to accomplish this, neutron beams entering the sample are modulated by high-transmission, white-beam selectors of the multislit type, such as Fourier or statistical choppers or high-frequency-modulated spin-flippers. In this scheme it is impossible to decide in a unique way through which particular slit any single neutron passed, but the distribution of histories for a large population of neutrons can nevertheless be correctly obtained, by classifying each conceivable history either as a high-probability or as a low-probability event,based on the actual observed state of the neutron selector. So far the principle has been successfully applied to powder diffraction, but it seems to offer extra degrees of freedom if applied to measuring dispersion curves of coherent excitations, such as phonons in single crystals

Neutron spectrometry by diamond detector for nuclear radiation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kozlov, S.F.; Konorova, E.A.; Barinov, A.L.; Jarkov, V.P.

1975-01-01

Experiments on fast neutron spectrometry using the nuclear radiation diamond detector inside a horizontal channel of a water-cooled and water-moderated reactor are described. It is shown that the diamond detector enables neutron spectra to be measured within the energy range of 0.3 to 10 MeV against reactor gamma-radiation background and has radiation resistance higher than that of conventional semiconductor detectors. (U.S.)

The Neutron Spectrometry System Using 3He Counter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dang Lanh; Pham Ngoc Tuan; Tuong Thi Thu Huong; Nguyen Nhi Dien; Nguyen Van Hung

2011-01-01

A spectrometry system was designed for neutron counting at the horizontal channels of Dalat nuclear reactor. The system is able to interface to PC via EZ-USB with full speed. The designed system can be installed for operation not only at the channel No. 4 of the reactor, but also operated with the neutron Howitzer system installed at the Training Center of Nuclear Research Institute for training purposes. Almost results can be achieved effectively while choosing the shaping time of 2 μs of amplifier unit; and an appropriate preamplifier is used to measure neutron spectra. In this work, the multi-channel spectrometer for measuring neutron was designed and tested. (author)

Neutron spectrometry with artificial neural networks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vega C, H.R.; Hernandez D, V.M.; Manzanares A, E.; Rodriguez, J.M.; Mercado S, G.A.; Iniguez de la Torre Bayo, M.P.; Barquero, R.; Arteaga A, T.

2005-01-01

An artificial neural network has been designed to obtain the neutron spectra from the Bonner spheres spectrometer's count rates. The neural network was trained using 129 neutron spectra. These include isotopic neutron sources; reference and operational spectra from accelerators and nuclear reactors, spectra from mathematical functions as well as few energy groups and monoenergetic spectra. The spectra were transformed from lethargy to energy distribution and were re-bin ned to 31 energy groups using the MCNP 4C code. Re-binned spectra and UTA4 response matrix were used to calculate the expected count rates in Bonner spheres spectrometer. These count rates were used as input and the respective spectrum was used as output during neural network training. After training the network was tested with the Bonner spheres count rates produced by a set of neutron spectra. This set contains data used during network training as well as data not used. Training and testing was carried out in the Mat lab program. To verify the network unfolding performance the original and unfolded spectra were compared using the χ 2 -test and the total fluence ratios. The use of Artificial Neural Networks to unfold neutron spectra in neutron spectrometry is an alternative procedure that overcomes the drawbacks associated in this ill-conditioned problem. (Author)

Neutron Dose Measurement Using a Cubic Moderator

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sheinfeld, M.; Mazor, T.; Cohen, Y.; Kadmon, Y.; Orion, I.

2014-01-01

The Bonner Sphere Spectrometer (BSS), introduced In July 1960 by a research group from Rice University, Texas, is a major approach to neutron spectrum estimation. The BSS, also known as multi-sphere spectrometer, consists of a set of a different diameters polyethylene spheres, carrying a small LiI(Eu) scintillator in their center. What makes this spectrometry method such widely used, is its almost isotropic response, covering an extraordinary wide range of energies, from thermal up to even hundreds of MeVs. One of the most interesting and useful consequences of the above study is the 12'' sphere characteristics, as it turned out that the response curve of its energy dependence, have a similar shape compared with the neutron's dose equivalent as a function of energy. This inexplicable and happy circumstance makes it virtually the only monitoring device capable providing realistic neutron dose estimates over such a wide energy range. However, since the detection mechanism is not strictly related to radiation dose, one can expect substantial errors when applied to widely different source conditions. Although the original design of the BSS included a small 4mmx4mmO 6LiI(Eu) scintillator, other thermal neutron detectors has been used over the years: track detectors, activation foils, BF3 filled proportional counters, etc. In this study we chose a Boron loaded scintillator, EJ-254, as the thermal neutron detector. The neutron capture reaction on the boron has a Q value of 2.78 MeV of which 2.34 MeV is shared by the alpha and lithium particles. The high manufacturing costs, the encasement issue, the installation efficiency and the fabrication complexity, led us to the idea of replacing the sphere with a cubic moderator. This article describes the considerations, as well as the Monte-Carlo simulations done in order to examine the applicability of this idea

Fast neutron dosimetry and spectrometry using radioactivation (1963); Dosimetrie et spectrometrie des neutrons rapides par radioactivation (1963)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lamberieux, J [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1963-07-01

The author first recalls rapidly a few generalities concerning induced radioactivity detectors and gives, in an appendix, tables summarizing the properties of detector elements which may be used in radioprotection. The excitation functions found in the literature and also given. The technological characteristics of the detectors used are given, together with the counting methods. The many advantages of activation dosimetry for strong or periodic neutron fluxes and for those in the presence of {gamma}-radiation are stressed. The main problem in activation dosimetry is, however, the calculation of the dose absorbed from the results of the measurements. It is shown how the dose is expressed, fairly accurately, as a function of the radioactivities induced in a series of detectors. As an example, the spectrometry and the dosimetry of the neutron flux emitted by a Po-Be source are presented. (author) [French] L'auteur fait d'abord un bref rappel des generalites sur les detecteurs a radioactivite induite, accompagne, en annexe, des tableaux resumant les proprietes d'elements detecteurs utilisables en radioprotection. Les fonctions d'excitation trouvees dans la litterature y sont egalement annexees. On donne ensuite les caracteristiques technologiques des detecteurs employes ainsi que les methodes de comptage utilisees. On souligne les nombreux avantages de la dosimetrie par activation dans les flux de neutrons intenses ou periodiques et en presence de rayonnement {gamma}. Il reste que le probleme central de la dosimetrie par activation est le calcul de la dose absorbee a partir des resultats de mesure. On montre comment la dose s'exprime, de maniere approchee, en fonction des radioactivites induites dans une serie de detecteurs. A titre d'exemple, la spectrometrie et la dosimetrie du flux de neutrons emis par une source de Po-Be sont presentees. (auteur)

Neutron spectrometry using artificial neural networks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vega-Carrillo, Hector Rene; Martin Hernandez-Davila, Victor; Manzanares-Acuna, Eduardo; Mercado Sanchez, Gema A.; Pilar Iniguez de la Torre, Maria; Barquero, Raquel; Palacios, Francisco; Mendez Villafane, Roberto; Arteaga Arteaga, Tarcicio; Manuel Ortiz Rodriguez, Jose

2006-01-01

An artificial neural network has been designed to obtain neutron spectra from Bonner spheres spectrometer count rates. The neural network was trained using 129 neutron spectra. These include spectra from isotopic neutron sources; reference and operational spectra from accelerators and nuclear reactors, spectra based on mathematical functions as well as few energy groups and monoenergetic spectra. The spectra were transformed from lethargy to energy distribution and were re-binned to 31 energy groups using the MCNP 4C code. The re-binned spectra and the UTA4 response matrix were used to calculate the expected count rates in Bonner spheres spectrometer. These count rates were used as input and their respective spectra were used as output during the neural network training. After training, the network was tested with the Bonner spheres count rates produced by folding a set of neutron spectra with the response matrix. This set contains data used during network training as well as data not used. Training and testing was carried out using the Matlab ( R) program. To verify the network unfolding performance, the original and unfolded spectra were compared using the root mean square error. The use of artificial neural networks to unfold neutron spectra in neutron spectrometry is an alternative procedure that overcomes the drawbacks associated with this ill-conditioned problem

Bulk media assay using backscattered neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Csikai, J.

2000-01-01

This paper summarized a systematic study of bulk media assay using backscattered neutron spectrometry. The source-sample-detector geometry used for the measurements of leakage and elastically backscattered (EBS) spectra of neutrons is shown. Neutrons up to about 14 MeV were produced via 2 H (d,n) and 9 Be (d,n) reactions using different deuteron beam energies between 5 and 10 MeV at the MGC-20E cyclotron of ATOMKI (Debrecen). Neutron yields of the Pu-Be and 252 Cf sources were 5.25 x 10 6 n/s and 1.8 x 10 6 n/s, respectively. Flux density distributions of thermal and primary 14 MeV neutrons were measured for graphite, water and coal samples in various moderator (M)-sample (S)-reflector (R) geometries. Relative fractions and integrated yields of 252 Cf, Pu-Be and 14 MeV neutrons above the (n,n'γ) reaction thresholds for 12 C, 16 O and 28 Si isotopes vs sample thickness have also been determined. It was found that the integrated reaction rate vs sample thickness decreasing exponentially with different attenuation coefficients depending on the neutron spectrum and the composition of the sample. The spectra of neutrons from sources passing through slabs of water, graphite, sand, Al, Fe and Pb up to 20 cm in thickness have been measured by a PHRS system in the 1.2 to 1.5 MeV range. The leakage neutron spectra from a Pu-Be source placed in the center of 30 cm diameter sphere filled with water, paraffin oil, SiO 2 , zeolite and river sand were also measured. The measured spectra have been compared with the calculated results obtained by the three dimensional Monte-Carlo code MCNP-4A and point-wise cross sections from the ENDF/B-4, ENDF/B-6, ENDF/E-1, BROND-2 and JENDL-3.1 data files. New results were obtained for validation of different data libraries from a comparison on the measured and the calculated spectra. Some typical results for water, Al, sand and Fe are shown. A combination of the backscattered neutron spectrometry with the surface gauge used both for the

Study of the environmental neutron spectrum at Zacatecas city

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vega C, H.R.

2003-01-01

The environmental neutron spectrum has been measured at Zacatecas City in Mexico. Neutron spectrum was unfolded from count rates obtained with a multisphere neutron spectrometer with a Li I(Eu) scintillator. With the spectrum information the ambient dose equivalent and the isotropic effective dose were calculated. A model based upon the geomagnetic latitude and the altitude above sea level, that allows to estimate the neutron fluence rate is proposed, the model results are compared with total neutron fluences measured at several locations worldwide. Environmental neutron spectrum shows peaks at 1 and 100 MeV as well as a relevant amount of low energy neutrons. The neutron fluence rate was 65 ± 3 cm -2 -h -1 , producing 13.7 ± 0.6 n Sv-h -1 due to ambient dose equivalent rate and an isotropic effective dose rate of 14.1 ± 0.6 n Sv-h -1 . Neutron fluence rates predicted with the model are in agreement with those reported in the literature. (Author)

Study of the environmental neutron spectrum at Zacatecas city

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vega C, H.R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Cuerpo Academico de Radiobiologia, A.P. 336, 98000 Zacatecas (Mexico)

2003-07-01

The environmental neutron spectrum has been measured at Zacatecas City in Mexico. Neutron spectrum was unfolded from count rates obtained with a multisphere neutron spectrometer with a Li I(Eu) scintillator. With the spectrum information the ambient dose equivalent and the isotropic effective dose were calculated. A model based upon the geomagnetic latitude and the altitude above sea level, that allows to estimate the neutron fluence rate is proposed, the model results are compared with total neutron fluences measured at several locations worldwide. Environmental neutron spectrum shows peaks at 1 and 100 MeV as well as a relevant amount of low energy neutrons. The neutron fluence rate was 65 {+-} 3 cm{sup -2}-h{sup -1}, producing 13.7 {+-} 0.6 n Sv-h{sup -1} due to ambient dose equivalent rate and an isotropic effective dose rate of 14.1 {+-} 0.6 n Sv-h{sup -1}. Neutron fluence rates predicted with the model are in agreement with those reported in the literature. (Author)

A proposal to order the neutron data set in neutron spectrometry using the RDANN methodology

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz R, J.M.; Martinez B, M.R.; Vega C, H.R. [UAZ, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde No. 801, 98000 Zacatecas (Mexico)

2006-07-01

A new proposal to order a neutron data set in the design process of artificial neural networks in the neutron spectrometry field is presented for first time. The robust design of artificial neural networks methodology was applied to 187 neutron spectra data set compiled by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Four cases of grouping the neutron spectra were considered and around 1000 different neural networks were designed, trained and tested with different net topologies each one. After carrying out the systematic methodology for all the cases, it was determined that the best neural network topology that produced the best reconstructed neutron spectra was case with 187 neutron spectra data set, determining that the best neural network topology is: 7 entrance neurons, 14 neurons in a hidden layer and 31 neurons in the exit layer, with a value of 0.1 in the learning rate and 0.1 in the moment. (Author)

A proposal to order the neutron data set in neutron spectrometry using the RDANN methodology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J.M.; Martinez B, M.R.; Vega C, H.R.

2006-01-01

A new proposal to order a neutron data set in the design process of artificial neural networks in the neutron spectrometry field is presented for first time. The robust design of artificial neural networks methodology was applied to 187 neutron spectra data set compiled by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Four cases of grouping the neutron spectra were considered and around 1000 different neural networks were designed, trained and tested with different net topologies each one. After carrying out the systematic methodology for all the cases, it was determined that the best neural network topology that produced the best reconstructed neutron spectra was case with 187 neutron spectra data set, determining that the best neural network topology is: 7 entrance neurons, 14 neurons in a hidden layer and 31 neurons in the exit layer, with a value of 0.1 in the learning rate and 0.1 in the moment. (Author)

Unfolding code for neutron spectrometry based on neural nets technology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R.

2012-10-01

The most delicate part of neutron spectrometry, is the unfolding process. The derivation of the spectral information is not simple because the unknown is not given directly as a result of the measurements. The drawbacks associated with traditional unfolding procedures have motivated the need of complementary approaches. Novel methods based on Artificial Neural Networks have been widely investigated. In this work, a neutron spectrum unfolding code based on neural nets technology is presented. This unfolding code called Neutron Spectrometry and Dosimetry by means of Artificial Neural Networks was designed in a graphical interface under LabVIEW programming environment. The core of the code is an embedded neural network architecture, previously optimized by the R obust Design of Artificial Neural Networks Methodology . The main features of the code are: is easy to use, friendly and intuitive to the user. This code was designed for a Bonner Sphere System based on a 6 Lil(Eu) neutron detector and a response matrix expressed in 60 energy bins taken from an International Atomic Energy Agency compilation. The main feature of the code is that as entrance data, only seven rate counts measurement with a Bonner spheres spectrometer are required for simultaneously unfold the 60 energy bins of the neutron spectrum and to calculate 15 dosimetric quantities, for radiation protection porpoises. This code generates a full report in html format with all relevant information. (Author)

Altitude variation of cosmic-ray neutrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nakamura, T.; Uwamino, Y.; Ohkubo, T.; Hara, A.

1987-01-01

The altitude variation of the cosmic-ray neutron energy spectrum and the dose equivalent rate was measured at an average geomagnetic latitude of 24 degrees N by using the high-efficiency multi-sphere neutron spectrometer and neutron dose-equivalent counter developed by the authors. The data were obtained from a 2-h flight over Japan on 27 February 1985. The neutron energy spectra measured at sea level and at altitudes of 4880 m and at 11,280 m were compared with the calculated spectra of O'Brien and with other experimental spectra, and they are in moderately good agreement with them. The dose equivalent rate increases according to a quadratic curve up to about 6000 m and then increases linearly between 6000 m and 11,280 m. The dependence of dose equivalent rates at sea level and at an altitude of 12,500 m on geomagnetic latitude also is given by referring to other experimental results

Unfolding code for neutron spectrometry based on neural nets technology

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R., E-mail: morvymm@yahoo.com.mx [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Ingenieria Electrica, Apdo. Postal 336, 98000 Zacatecas (Mexico)

2012-10-15

The most delicate part of neutron spectrometry, is the unfolding process. The derivation of the spectral information is not simple because the unknown is not given directly as a result of the measurements. The drawbacks associated with traditional unfolding procedures have motivated the need of complementary approaches. Novel methods based on Artificial Neural Networks have been widely investigated. In this work, a neutron spectrum unfolding code based on neural nets technology is presented. This unfolding code called Neutron Spectrometry and Dosimetry by means of Artificial Neural Networks was designed in a graphical interface under LabVIEW programming environment. The core of the code is an embedded neural network architecture, previously optimized by the {sup R}obust Design of Artificial Neural Networks Methodology{sup .} The main features of the code are: is easy to use, friendly and intuitive to the user. This code was designed for a Bonner Sphere System based on a {sup 6}Lil(Eu) neutron detector and a response matrix expressed in 60 energy bins taken from an International Atomic Energy Agency compilation. The main feature of the code is that as entrance data, only seven rate counts measurement with a Bonner spheres spectrometer are required for simultaneously unfold the 60 energy bins of the neutron spectrum and to calculate 15 dosimetric quantities, for radiation protection porpoises. This code generates a full report in html format with all relevant information. (Author)

Neutron spectra produced by moderating an isotopic neutron source

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Carrillo Nunnez, Aureliano; Vega Carrillo, Hector Rene

2001-01-01

A Monte Carlo study has been carried out to determine the neutron spectra produced by an isotopic neutron source inserted in moderating media. Most devices used for radiation protection have a response strongly dependent on neutron energy. ISO recommends several neutron sources and monoenergetic neutron radiations, but actual working situations have broad spectral neutron distributions extending from thermal to MeV energies, for instance, near nuclear power plants, medical applications accelerators and cosmic neutrons. To improve the evaluation of the dosimetric quantities, is recommended to calibrate the radiation protection devices in neutron spectra which are nearly like those met in practice. In order to complete the range of neutron calibrating sources, it seems useful to develop several wide spectral distributions representative of typical spectra down to thermal energies. The aim of this investigation was to use an isotopic neutron source in different moderating media to reproduce some of the neutron fields found in practice. MCNP code has been used during calculations, in these a 239PuBe neutron source was inserted in H2O, D2O and polyethylene moderators. Moderators were modeled as spheres and cylinders of different sizes. In the case of cylindrical geometry the anisotropy of resulting neutron spectra was calculated from 0 to 2 . From neutron spectra dosimetric features were calculated. MCNP calculations were validated by measuring the neutron spectra of a 239PuBe neutron source inserted in a H2O cylindrical moderator. The measurements were carried out with a multisphere neutron spectrometer with a 6LiI(Eu) scintillator. From the measurements the neutron spectrum was unfolded using the BUNKIUT code and the UTA4 response matrix. Some of the moderators with the source produce a neutron spectrum close to spectra found in actual applications, then can be used during the calibration of radiation protection devices

Calibration and intercomparison of neutron moderation spectrometers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rimpler, A.; Hermanska, J.; Prouza, Z.

1989-01-01

Results have been reported of comparative measurements of neutron fields from bare PuBe and Cf sources using multisphere (Bonner) spectrometers. The experiments were carried out by the Institute of Biophysics and Nuclear Medicine at Charles University in Prague and the National Board for Atomic Safety and Radiation Protection in Berlin. Both sides agreed upon uniform measuring conditions and calibration factors thus rendering possible the comparability of the dosimetric parameters which have been determined and verified, respectively, to an accuracy of ± 10%. 20 refs., 10 tabs., 2 figs. (author)

Progress in neutron beam development at the HFR Petten (feasibility study for a BNCT facility)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Constantine, G.; Moss, R.L.; Watkins, P.R.D.; Perks, C.A.; Delafield, H.J.; Ross, D.; Voorbraak, W.P.; Paardekooper, A.; Freudenreich, W.E.; Stecher-Rasmussen, F.

1990-08-01

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy, using intermediate energy neutrons to achieve the deep penetration essential for treating brain tumours, can be implemented with a filtered reactor neutron beam. This is designed to minimize the mean energy of the neutrons to keep proton recoil damage to the scalp within normal tissue tolerance limits whilst delivering the required thermal neutron fluence to the tumour over a reasonably short period. This can only be realized in conjunction with a high power density reactor. At the Joint Research Centre Petten an optimized neutron filter is currently being built for installation into the HB11 beam tube of the High Flux Reactor HFR. Part of the development leading to this design has been an extensive study of broad spectrum, filtered beam performance on the HB7 beam tube facility. A wide range of calculations was performed using the Monte Carlo code, MCPN, supported by validation experiments in which several filter configuration incorporating aluminium, sulphur, liquid argon, titanium and cadmium were installed for low power measurements of the neutron fluence rate, neutron spectra and beam gamma-ray contamination. The measurements were carried out within a successful European collaboration. Evaluations were made of the reactor core edge and unfiltered beam spectra, for comparison with MCNP calculations. Multi-foil activation methods and also gamma dose determination in the filtered beam using thermo-luminescent detectors were performed by the ECN. The Harwell/ Birmingham University collaborators undertook the neutron spectrum measurements in the filtered beam. proton recoil spectrometry was used above 30 keV, combined with a multi-sphere and BF 3 chamber response modification technique. Subsequent spectrum adjustment was carried out with the SENSAK code. The agreement between the calculated and measured spectra has given confidence in the reactor and filter modelling methods used to design the HB11 therapy facility. (author). 12 refs

Neutron spectra unfolding in Bonner spheres spectrometry using neural networks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kardan, M.R.; Setayeshi, S.; Koohi-Fayegh, R.; Ghiassi-Nejad, M.

2003-01-01

The neural network method has been used for the unfolding of neutron spectra in neutron spectrometry by Bonner spheres. A back propagation algorithm was used for training of neural networks 4mm x 4 mm bare LiI(Eu) and in a polyethylene sphere set: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 18 inch diameter have been used for unfolding of neutron spectra. Neural networks were trained by 199 sets of neutron spectra, which were subdivided into 6, 8, 10, 12, 15 and 20 energy bins and for each of them an appropriate neural network was designed and trained. The validation was performed by the 21 sets of neutron spectra. A neural network with 10 energy bins which had a mean value of error of 6% for dose equivalent estimation of spectra in the validation set showed the best results. The obtained results show that neural networks can be applied as an effective method for unfolding neutron spectra especially when the main target is neutron dosimetry. (author)

Neutron and photon spectrometry in mixed radiation fields

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jancar, A.; Kopecky, Z.; Veskrna, M.

2014-01-01

Spectrometric measurements of the mixed fields of neutron and photon radiation in the workplaces with the L-R-0 research reactor located in the UJV Rez and with the Van de Graaff accelerator, located in the UTEF laboratories Prague, are presented in this paper. The experimental spectrometric measurements were performed using a newly developed digital measuring system, based on the technology of analog-digital converters with a very high sampling frequency (up to 2 GHz), in connection with organic scintillation detector, type BC-501A, and stilbene detector. The results of experimental measurements show high quality of spectrometry mixed fields of neutron and photon radiation across the wide dynamic range of measured energy. (authors)

Neutron dose and energy spectra measurements at Savannah River Plant

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brackenbush, L.W.; Soldat, K.L.; Haggard, D.L.; Faust, L.G.; Tomeraasen, P.L.

1987-08-01

Because some workers have a high potential for significant neutron exposure, the Savannah River Plant (SRP) contracted with Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) to verify the accuracy of neutron dosimetry at the plant. Energy spectrum and neutron dose measurements were made at the SRP calibrations laboratory and at several other locations. The energy spectra measurements were made using multisphere or Bonner sphere spectrometers, 3 He spectrometers, and NE-213 liquid scintillator spectrometers. Neutron dose equivalent determinations were made using these instruments and others specifically designed to determine dose equivalent, such as the tissue equivalent proportional counter (TEPC). Survey instruments, such as the Eberline PNR-4, and the thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD)-albedo and track etch dosimeters (TEDs) were also used. The TEPC, subjectively judged to provide the most accurate estimation of true dose equivalent, was used as the reference for comparison with other devices. 29 refs., 43 figs., 13 tabs

On neutron activation analysis with γγ coincidence spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zeisler, Rolf; Danyal Turkoglu; Ibere Souza Ribeiro Junior; Shetty, M.G.

2017-01-01

A new γγ coincidence system has been set up at NIST. It is operated with a digital data finder supported by new software developed at NIST. The system is used to explore possible enhancements in instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) and study applicability to neutron capture prompt gamma activation analysis (PGAA). The performance of the system is tested with certified reference materials for efficiency calibration and quantitative performance. Comparisons of INAA results based on conventional gamma-ray spectrometry data with INAA results based on coincidence data obtained from the same samples show improvements in the counting uncertainties and demonstrates the quantitative accuracy of the new system. (author)

Site-specific calibration of the Hanford personnel neutron dosimeter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Endres, A.W.; Brackenbush, L.W.; Baumgartner, W.V.; Rathbone, B.A.

1994-10-01

A new personnel dosimetry system, employing a standard Hanford thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) and a combination dosimeter with both CR-39 nuclear track and TLD-albedo elements, is being implemented at Hanford. Measurements were made in workplace environments in order to verify the accuracy of the system and establish site-specific factors to account for the differences in dosimeter response between the workplace and calibration laboratory. Neutron measurements were performed using sources at Hanford's Plutonium Finishing Plant under high-scatter conditions to calibrate the new neutron dosimeter design to site-specific neutron spectra. The dosimeter was also calibrated using bare and moderated 252 Cf sources under low-scatter conditions available in the Hanford Calibration Laboratory. Dose equivalent rates in the workplace were calculated from spectrometer measurements using tissue equivalent proportional counter (TEPC) and multisphere spectrometers. The accuracy of the spectrometers was verified by measurements on neutron sources with calibrations directly traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

NSDUAZ unfolding package for neutron spectrometry and dosimetry with Bonner spheres

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vega C, H. R.; Martinez B, M. R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Estudios Nucleares, Calle Cipres No. 10, Fracc. La Penuela, 98068 Zacatecas (Mexico); Ortiz R, J. M., E-mail: fermineutron@yahoo.com [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Ingenieria Electrica, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde 801, Col. Centro, 98000 Zacatecas (Mexico)

2011-10-15

NSDUAZ (Neutron Spectrometry and Dosimetry for the Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas) is a user friendly neutron unfolding package for Bonner sphere spectrometer with {sup 6}Lil(Eu) developed under Lab View environment. Unfolding is carried out using a recursive iterative procedure with the SPUNIT algorithm, where the starting spectrum is obtained from a library initial guess spectrum to start the iterations, the package include a statistical procedure based on the count rates relative to the count rate in the 8 inches-diameter sphere to select the initial spectrum. Neutron spectrum is unfolded in 32 energy groups ranging from 10{sup -8} up to 231.2 MeV. (Author)

Response matrix of a multisphere neutron spectrometer with an 3 He proportional counter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vega C, H.R.; Manzanares A, E.; Hernandez D, V.M.; Mercado S, G.A.

2005-01-01

The response matrix of a Bonner sphere spectrometer was calculated by use of the MCNP code. As thermal neutron counter, the spectrometer has a 3.2 cm-diameter 3 He-filled proportional counter which is located at the center of a set of polyethylene spheres. The response was calculated for 0, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 16 inches-diameter polyethylene spheres for neutrons whose energy goes from 10 -9 to 20 MeV. The response matrix was compared with a set of responses measured with several monoenergetic neutron sources. In this comparison the calculated matrix agrees with the experimental results. The matrix was also compared with the response matrix calculated for the PTB C spectrometer. Even though that calculation was carried out using a detailed model to describe the proportional counter; both matrices do agree, but small differences are observed in the bare case because of the difference in the model used during calculations. Other differences are in some spheres for 14.8 and 20 MeV neutrons, probably due to the differences in the cross sections used during both calculations. (Author) 28 refs., 1 tab., 6 figs

Study on neutron dosimetry in JNC Tokai Works

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tsujimura, Norio [Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Inst., Tokai, Ibaraki (Japan). Tokai Works

2003-03-01

The author developed the neutron reference calibration fields using a {sup 252}Cf standard source surrounded with PMMA (polymethylmethacrylates) moderators at the Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Institute (JNC), Tokai Works. The moderators are concentric, annular cylinders made of lead-contained PMMA with a thickness of 13.5, 35.0, 59.5 and 77.0mm, and the {sup 252}Cf source is guided to the geometric center of moderators by the pneumatic system. These fields can provide the moderated neutron spectra very similar to those encountered around the globe-boxes of the fabrication process of MOX (PuO{sub 2}-UO{sub 2} mixed oxide) fuel. The neutron energy spectrum at the reference calibration point was evaluated from the calculations by MCNP4B and the measurements by the INS-type Bonner multi-sphere spectrometer and the hydrogen-filled proportional counters. The calculated neutron spectra were in good agreements with the measured ones. These fields were characterized in terms of the neutron fluence rate, spectral composition and ambient dose equivalent rate, and have served for the response-characterization of various neutron survey instruments. (author)

Nuclear research emulsion neutron spectrometry at the Little-Boy replica

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gold, R.; Roberts, J.H.; Preston, C.C.

1985-10-01

Nuclear research emulsions (NRE) have been used to characterize the neutron spectrum emitted by the Little-Boy replica. NRE were irradiated at the Little-Boy surface as well as approximately 2 m from the center of the Little-Boy replica using polar angles of 0 0 , 30 0 , 60 0 and 90 0 . For the NRE exposed at 2 m, neutron background was determined using shadow shields of borated polyethylene. Emulsion scanning to date has concentrated exclusively on the 2-m, 0 0 and 2-m, 90 0 locations. Approximately 5000 proton-recoil tracks have been measured in NRE irradiated at each of these locations. Neutron spectra obtained from these NRE proton-recoil spectra are compared with both liquid scintillator neutron spectrometry and Monte Carlo calculations. NRE and liquid scintillator neutron spectra generally agree within experimental uncertainties at the 2-m, 90 0 location. However, at the 2-m, 0 0 location, the neutron spectra derived from these two independent experimental methods differ significantly. NRE spectra and Monte Carlo calculations exhibit general agreement with regard to both intensity as well as energy dependence. Better agreement is attained between theory and experiment at the 2-m, 90 0 location, where the neutron intensity is considerably higher. 14 refs., 18 figs., 11 tabs

Estimation of 129I by low energy spectrometry and neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ravi, P.M.; Iyer, M.R.; Sahasrabudhe, S.G.; Somasundaram, S.; Subramanian, M.S.

1986-01-01

Methods have been developed for the estimation of 129 I by direct passive counting and by neutron activation analysis. The direct counting method using low energy photon spectrometry has been standardised for liquid samples. Interference from different induced radionuclides in the activation method was studied. Limits of detection of 129 I by direct counting method and neutron activation analysis work out to be 0.4 Bq and 1mBq respectively. (author). 6 refs

Characteristics of thermal neutron calibration fields using a graphite pile

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uchita, Yoshiaki; Saegusa, Jun; Kajimoto, Yoichi; Tanimura, Yoshihiko; Shimizu, Shigeru; Yoshizawa, Michio

2005-03-01

The Facility of Radiation Standards of Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute is equipped with thermal neutron fields for calibrating area and personal neutron dosemeters. The fields use moderated neutrons leaked from a graphite pile in which radionuclide sources are placed. In January 2003, we have renewed the pile with some modifications in its size. In accordance with the renewal, we measured and calculated thermal neutron fluence rates, neutron energy distributions and angular distributions of the fields. The thermal neutron fluence rates of the ''inside-pile fields'' and the outside-pile fields'' were determined by the gold foil activation method. The neutron energy distributions of the outside-pile fields were also measured with the Bonner multi-sphere spectrometer system. The contributions of epithermal and fast neutrons to the total dose-equivalents were 9% in the southern outside-pile field and 12% in the western outside-pile field. The personal dose-equivalents, H p,slab (10, α), in the outside-pile fields are evaluated by considering the calculated angular distributions of incoming neutrons. The H p,slab (10, α) was found to be about 40% higher than the value in assuming the unidirectional neutron between the pile and the test point. (author)

A diffusion-theoretical method to calculate the neutron flux distribution in multisphere configurations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Schuerrer, F.

1980-01-01

For characterizing heterogene configurations of pebble-bed reactors the fine structure of the flux distribution as well as the determination of the macroscopic neutronphysical quantities are of interest. When calculating system parameters of Wigner-Seitz-cells the usual codes for neutron spectra calculation always neglect the modulation of the neutron flux by the influence of neighbouring spheres. To judge the error arising from that procedure it is necessary to determinate the flux distribution in the surrounding of a spherical fuel element. In the present paper an approximation method to calculate the flux distribution in the two-sphere model is developed. This method is based on the exactly solvable problem of the flux determination of a point source of neutrons in an infinite medium, which contains a spherical perturbation zone eccentric to the point source. An iteration method allows by superposing secondary fields and alternately satisfying the conditions of continuity on the surface of each of the two fuel elements to advance to continually improving approximations. (orig.) 891 RW/orig. 892 CKA [de

Neutron spectrometry and determination of neutron ambient dose equivalents in different LINAC radiotherapy rooms

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Domingo, C.; Garcia-Fuste, M.J.; Morales, E.; Amgarou, K.; Terron, J.A.; Rosello, J.; Brualla, L.; Nunez, L.; Colmenares, R.; Gomez, F.; Hartmann, G.H.; Sanchez-Doblado, F.; Fernandez, F.

2010-01-01

A project has been set up to study the effect on a radiotherapy patient of the neutrons produced around the LINAC accelerator head by photonuclear reactions induced by photons above ∼8 MeV. These neutrons may reach directly the patient, or they may interact with the surrounding materials until they become thermalised, scattering all over the treatment room and affecting the patient as well, contributing to peripheral dose. Spectrometry was performed with a calibrated and validated set of Bonner spheres at a point located at 50 cm from the isocenter, as well as at the place where a digital device for measuring neutrons, based on the upset of SRAM memories induced by thermal neutrons, is located inside the treatment room. Exposures have taken place in six LINAC accelerators with different energies (from 15 to 23 MV) with the aim of relating the spectrometer measurements with the readings of the digital device under various exposure and room geometry conditions. The final purpose of the project is to be able to relate, under any given treatment condition and room geometry, the readings of this digital device to patient neutron effective dose and peripheral dose in organs of interest. This would allow inferring the probability of developing second malignancies as a consequence of the treatment. Results indicate that unit neutron fluence spectra at 50 cm from the isocenter do not depend on accelerator characteristics, while spectra at the place of the digital device are strongly influenced by the treatment room geometry.

Determination of the neutron and photon dose equivalent at work places in nuclear facilities of Sweden. An SSI - EURADOS comparison exercise. Part 2: Evaluation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bartlett, D. [National Radiological Protection Board, Chilton (United Kingdom); Drake, P. [Vattenfall AB, Vaeroebacka (Sweden); Lindborg, L. [Swedish Radiation Protection Inst., Stockholm (Sweden); Klein, H. [Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt, Braunschweig (Germany); Schmitz, Th. [Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH, Juelich (Germany); Tichy, M

1999-06-01

Various mixed neutron-photon fields at workplaces in the containment of pressurised water reactors and in the vicinity of transport containers with spent fuel elements were investigated with spectrometers and dosimeters. The spectral neutron fluences evaluated from measurements with multisphere systems were recommended to be used for the calculation of dosimetric reference values for comparison with the readings of the dosemeters applied simultaneously. It turned out that most of the moderator based area dosemeters overestimated, while the TEPC systems generally underestimated the ambient dose equivalent (DE) values of the rather soft neutron fields encountered at these workplaces. The discrepancies can, however, be explained on the basis of energy dependent responses of the instruments used. The ambient DE values obtained with recently developed area dosemeters based on superheated drop detectors and with track etch based personal dosemeters on phantoms, however, were in satisfying agreement with the reference data. Sets of personal dosemeters simultaneously irradiated on a phantom allowed to roughly estimate the directional dependence of the neutron fluence. Hence, personal and limiting dose equivalent quantities could also be calculated. The personal and ambient DE values were always conservative estimates of the limiting quantities. Unexpectedly, discrepancies were observed for photon DE data measured with GM counters and TEPC systems. The up to 50 % higher readings of the GM counters may be explained by a considerable contribution of high energy photons to the total photon dose equivalent, but photon spectrometry is necessary for final clarification.

Determination of the neutron and photon dose equivalent at work places in nuclear facilities of Sweden. An SSI - EURADOS comparison exercise. Part 2: Evaluation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bartlett, D.; Drake, P.; Lindborg, L.; Klein, H.; Schmitz, Th.; Tichy, M.

1999-06-01

Various mixed neutron-photon fields at workplaces in the containment of pressurised water reactors and in the vicinity of transport containers with spent fuel elements were investigated with spectrometers and dosimeters. The spectral neutron fluences evaluated from measurements with multisphere systems were recommended to be used for the calculation of dosimetric reference values for comparison with the readings of the dosemeters applied simultaneously. It turned out that most of the moderator based area dosemeters overestimated, while the TEPC systems generally underestimated the ambient dose equivalent (DE) values of the rather soft neutron fields encountered at these workplaces. The discrepancies can, however, be explained on the basis of energy dependent responses of the instruments used. The ambient DE values obtained with recently developed area dosemeters based on superheated drop detectors and with track etch based personal dosemeters on phantoms, however, were in satisfying agreement with the reference data. Sets of personal dosemeters simultaneously irradiated on a phantom allowed to roughly estimate the directional dependence of the neutron fluence. Hence, personal and limiting dose equivalent quantities could also be calculated. The personal and ambient DE values were always conservative estimates of the limiting quantities. Unexpectedly, discrepancies were observed for photon DE data measured with GM counters and TEPC systems. The up to 50 % higher readings of the GM counters may be explained by a considerable contribution of high energy photons to the total photon dose equivalent, but photon spectrometry is necessary for final clarification

Development of a new software tool, based on ANN technology, in neutron spectrometry and dosimetry research

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J.M.; Martinez B, M.R.; Vega C, H.R.

2007-01-01

Artificial Intelligence is a branch of study which enhances the capability of computers by giving them human-like intelligence. The brain architecture has been extensively studied and attempts have been made to emulate it as in the Artificial Neural Network technology. A large variety of neural network architectures have been developed and they have gained wide-spread popularity over the last few decades. Their application is considered as a substitute for many classical techniques that have been used for many years, as in the case of neutron spectrometry and dosimetry research areas. In previous works, a new approach called Robust Design of Artificial Neural network was applied to build an ANN topology capable to solve the neutron spectrometry and dosimetry problems within the Mat lab programming environment. In this work, the knowledge stored at Mat lab ANN's synaptic weights was extracted in order to develop for first time a customized software application based on ANN technology, which is proposed to be used in the neutron spectrometry and simultaneous dosimetry fields. (Author)

Development of a new software tool, based on ANN technology, in neutron spectrometry and dosimetry research

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz R, J.M.; Martinez B, M.R.; Vega C, H.R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde 801, A.P. 336, 98000 Zacatecas (Mexico)

2007-07-01

Artificial Intelligence is a branch of study which enhances the capability of computers by giving them human-like intelligence. The brain architecture has been extensively studied and attempts have been made to emulate it as in the Artificial Neural Network technology. A large variety of neural network architectures have been developed and they have gained wide-spread popularity over the last few decades. Their application is considered as a substitute for many classical techniques that have been used for many years, as in the case of neutron spectrometry and dosimetry research areas. In previous works, a new approach called Robust Design of Artificial Neural network was applied to build an ANN topology capable to solve the neutron spectrometry and dosimetry problems within the Mat lab programming environment. In this work, the knowledge stored at Mat lab ANN's synaptic weights was extracted in order to develop for first time a customized software application based on ANN technology, which is proposed to be used in the neutron spectrometry and simultaneous dosimetry fields. (Author)

Method and equipment for γ background compensation in neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Holman, M.; Marik, P.

1986-01-01

The compensation of background gamma radiation in neutron spectrometry is based on the measurement of the total energy spectrum of all protons and electrons, and of the energy spectrum of those protons and neutrons which are in coincidence with the discriminating signal derived from the integral of the counting rate distribution by pulse shape. The benefits of the method consist in the possibility of using standard single-parameter apparatus, in considerably smaller demands on the memory capacity and the possibility of a substantially finer division of the spectrum and more accurate compensation of the background than has been the case with methods used so far. A practical application is shown in a block diagram. (J.B.)

Quantitative radiological characterization of waste. Integration of gamma spectrometry and passive/active neutron assay

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Simone, Gianluca; Mauro, Egidio; Gagliardi, Filippo; Gorello, Edoardo [Nucleco S.p.A., Rome (Italy)

2016-06-15

The radiological characterization of drums through Non-Destructive Assay (NDA) techniques commonly relies on gamma spectrometry. This paper introduces the procedure developed in Nucleco for the NDA radiological characterization of drums when the presence of Special Nuclear Material (SNM) is expected/observed. The procedure is based on the integration of a gamma spectrometry in SGS mode (Segmented Gamma Scanner) and a passive/active neutron assay. The application of this procedure is discussed on a real case of drums. The extension of the integration procedure to other gamma spectrometry systems is also discussed.

Prompt-gamma spectrometry for the optimization of reactor neutron beams in biomedical research

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Borisov, G.I.; Komkov, M.M.; Leonov, V.F.

1988-01-01

In order to select the optimal spectral composition and size for the reactor neutron beams applied to in vivo analysis and therapy in biomedical research it is necessary to determine the spatial slow-neutron flux distributions produced by the beam in the irradiated object and to calculate or measure the neutron dose equivalents of both the original spectrum and the moderated neutrons. In this study the maximum neutron dose equivalents are found by spectrometry of the prompt-γ emission from the interaction of neutrons with atomic nuclei in the irradiated object. Different spectral distributions were produced by using an unfiltered beam together with filters of quartz, cadmium, 10 B, iron, aluminum, and sulfur. The phantom used was a tank filled with an aqueous solution of urea. Cadmium-containing organs were simulated. For in vivo neutron-activation analysis of human tissues at a depth of 2-5 cm it was found advisable to use neutrons of 20-40 keV mean energy with a beam area of at least 45 cm 2

Test and validation of the iterative code for the neutrons spectrometry and dosimetry: NSDUAZ

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reyes H, A.; Ortiz R, J. M.; Reyes A, A.; Castaneda M, R.; Solis S, L. O.; Vega C, H. R.

2014-08-01

In this work was realized the test and validation of an iterative code for neutronic spectrometry known as Neutron Spectrometry and Dosimetry of the Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas (NSDUAZ). This code was designed in a user graph interface, friendly and intuitive in the environment programming of LabVIEW using the iterative algorithm known as SPUNIT. The main characteristics of the program are: the automatic selection of the initial spectrum starting from the neutrons spectra catalog compiled by the International Atomic Energy Agency, the possibility to generate a report in HTML format that shows in graph and numeric way the neutrons flowing and calculates the ambient dose equivalent with base to this. To prove the designed code, the count rates of a spectrometer system of Bonner spheres were used with a detector of 6 LiI(Eu) with 7 polyethylene spheres with diameter of 0, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10 and 12. The count rates measured with two neutron sources: 252 Cf and 239 PuBe were used to validate the code, the obtained results were compared against those obtained using the BUNKIUT code. We find that the reconstructed spectra present an error that is inside the limit reported in the literature that oscillates around 15%. Therefore, it was concluded that the designed code presents similar results to those techniques used at the present time. (Author)

Monte Carlo calculations and neutron spectrometry in quantitative prompt gamma neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) of bulk samples using an isotopic neutron source

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Spyrou, N.M.; Awotwi-Pratt, J.B.; Williams, A.M.

2004-01-01

An activation analysis facility based on an isotopic neutron source (185 GBq 241 Am/Be) which can perform both prompt and cyclic activation analysis on bulk samples, has been used for more than 20 years in many applications including 'in vivo' activation analysis and the determination of the composition of bio-environmental samples, such as, landfill waste and coal. Although the comparator method is often employed, because of the variety in shape, size and elemental composition of these bulk samples, it is often difficult and time consuming to construct appropriate comparator samples for reference. One of the obvious problems is the distribution and energy of the neutron flux in these bulk and comparator samples. In recent years, it was attempted to adopt the absolute method based on a monostandard and to make calculations using a Monte Carlo code (MCNP4C2) to explore this further. In particular, a model of the irradiation facility has been made using the MCNP4C2 code in order to investigate the factors contributing to the quantitative determination of the elemental concentrations through prompt gamma neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) and most importantly, to estimate how the neutron energy spectrum and neutron dose vary with penetration depth into the sample. This simulation is compared against the scattered and transmitted neutron energy spectra that are experimentally and empirically determined using a portable neutron spectrometry system. (author)

A passive Bonner sphere spectrometer for in-flight neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hajek, M.; Berger, T.; Vana, N.

2003-01-01

The neutron energy spectrum was measured onboard a series of four return flights between Cologne (Germany) and Washington, DC (USA) during the solar minimum conditions of June/July 1996. This experiment was world-wide the first determination of the neutron spectrum by passive spectrometry methods onboard an aircraft. The project was conducted with the support of the German Airforce which reserved two seat rows in the front of an Airbus A 310-304 for the passive BSS. The count rates were computed according to the Pair Method and unfolded with MAXED. Obtained spectrum shows two relative maxima around 1 and 100 MeV, the second of which cannot be completely assessed by the applied BSS. The agreement between measurement and calculation proved to be excellent

Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry measurement at workplaces for calibration of individual PGP-DIN dosemeters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Itie, C.; Muller, H.; Asselineau, B.; Medioni, R.; Crovisier, P.; Valier-Bradier, P.; Groetz, J.E.; Piot, J.

2003-01-01

Measurements to determine new coefficients for individual neutron dosimeters PGP-DIN complying with the ICRP 60 recommendations were performed at two workplaces at the CEA of Valduc: a storage room and a plutonium reprocessing plant. Two spectrometry campaigns were performed allowing a better assessment of doses received by operators working at these workplaces. Neutron energy fluence and ambient dose equivalent rate H * (10) distributions were measured as function of neutron energy by using the ROSPEC device and BONNER spheres spectrometer. The radiation field being mixed neutron and gamma, the gamma component was also evaluated: neutron and photon dose-rate meters were used to evaluate the ambient dose rate equivalent. Individual dosemeters were positioned on an ISO water slab phantom. In addition, calculations were performed using the MCNP simulation code for different configurations. (authors)

Historical review of neutron spectrometry and diffraction in Brazil - 50 years

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Voi, Dante L.; Ferreira, Francisco J.O.; Stasiulevicius, Roberto; Rodrigues, Claudio; Parente, Carlos B.R.; Mazzocchi, Vera L.; Mestnik Filho, Jose; Pugliesi, Reinaldo

2011-01-01

Neutron Spectrometry and Diffraction techniques began to be studied in Brazil with the construction of the first research reactors in the years 50 and 60, and were developed with the participation of national and international scientists. In particular, we note the perseverance of the Brazilian pioneer of nuclear energy, Dr. Marcello Damy de Souza Santos, and from that time, with the involvement of some of the early pioneers, such as the physicist Roberto Stasiulevicius, who had the privilege of working in all three Brazilian nuclear research reactors. All these scientists shared half a century of acquired knowledge, helping in the training of a number of experts who are now working in national and international nuclear institutes. The present work reviews in chronological order, the testimony of the historical facts associated with the development and application of experimental techniques using neutrons as a tool for materials analysis and studies for many areas of the sciences and also with the training of personnel. IPEN, IEN and CDTN, all institutes of the CNEN-Brazil, are important in the national and international scene as a result of the research carried out there and the large number of publications produced in the field of neutron spectrometry and diffraction from experimental work carried out using the IEA (5MW), Argonauta (5kW) and more recently, the IPR (250kW) research reactors. An extensive bibliography is also presented and this can be disseminated to everyone interested. (author)

Application of high resolution x-ray spectrometry preceded by neutron activation for elemental analysis of soil samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hernandez Rivero, A.; Capote Rodriguez, G.; Padilla Alvarez, R.; Herrera Peraza, E.

1997-01-01

Utilization of High Resolution X-Ray Spectrometry preceded by activation of the samples by irradiation with neutron fluxes (NAA-RX) is a relatively modern trend in application of nuclear techniques. This method may complement advantageously the usual Neutron Activation Analysis by means of Gamma Spectrometry (NAA-G). In this work results obtained by the application of NAA-RX for non-destructive analysis of Cuban soil samples are discussed. The samples were irradiated with reactor neutron fluxes and the induced characteristic X-rays were measured by using Si(Li)-detector. Concentrations of Fe, Zn and Eu as determined by NAA-RX are compared with both NAA-G and XRF data. For the elaboration of X-Ray and Gamma Spectra the computer programs AXIL and ACTAN were used respectively. (author) [es

Application of high resolution x-ray spectrometry preceded by neutron activation for elemental analysis of soil samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hernandez Rivero, A.; Capote Rodriguez, G.; Herrera Peraza, E.

1996-01-01

Utilization of High Resolution X-Ray Spectrometry preceded by activation of the samples by irradiation with neutron fluxes (NAA R X) is a relatively modern trend in application of nuclear techniques. This method may complement advantageously the usual Neutron Activation Analysis by means of Gamma Spectrometry (NAA-G) In this work results obtained by the application of NAA-RX for non-destructive analysis of Cuban soil samples are discussed. The samples were irradiated with reactor neutron fluxes and the induced characteristic X-rays were measured by using Si(li)-detector. Concentrations of Fe, Zn and Eu as determined by NAA-RX are compared with both NAA-G and XRF data. For the elaboration of X-ray and Gamma Spectra the computer programs AXIL and ACTAN were used respectively

Radioisotopic neutron transmission spectrometry: Quantitative analysis by using partial least-squares method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kim, Jong-Yun; Choi, Yong Suk; Park, Yong Joon; Jung, Sung-Hee

2009-01-01

Neutron spectrometry, based on the scattering of high energy fast neutrons from a radioisotope and slowing-down by the light hydrogen atoms, is a useful technique for non-destructive, quantitative measurement of hydrogen content because it has a large measuring volume, and is not affected by temperature, pressure, pH value and color. The most common choice for radioisotope neutron source is 252 Cf or 241 Am-Be. In this study, 252 Cf with a neutron flux of 6.3x10 6 n/s has been used as an attractive neutron source because of its high flux neutron and weak radioactivity. Pulse-height neutron spectra have been obtained by using in-house built radioisotopic neutron spectrometric system equipped with 3 He detector and multi-channel analyzer, including a neutron shield. As a preliminary study, polyethylene block (density of ∼0.947 g/cc and area of 40 cmx25 cm) was used for the determination of hydrogen content by using multivariate calibration models, depending on the thickness of the block. Compared with the results obtained from a simple linear calibration model, partial least-squares regression (PLSR) method offered a better performance in a quantitative data analysis. It also revealed that the PLSR method in a neutron spectrometric system can be promising in the real-time, online monitoring of the powder process to determine the content of any type of molecules containing hydrogen nuclei.

Definition by modelling, optimization and characterization of a neutron spectrometry system based on Bonner spheres extended to the high-energy range

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Serre, S.

2010-01-01

This research thesis first describes the problematic of the effects of natural radiation on micro- and nano-electronic components, and the atmospheric-radiative stress of atmospheric neutrons from cosmic origin: issue of 'Single event upsets', present knowledge of the atmospheric radiative environment induced by cosmic rays. The author then presents the neutron-based detection and spectrometry by using the Bonner sphere technique: principle of moderating spheres, definition and mathematical formulation of neutron spectrometry using Bonner spheres, active sensors of thermal neutrons, response of a system to conventional Bonner spheres, extension to the range of high energies. Then, he reports the development of a Bonner sphere system extended to the high-energy range for the spectrometry of atmospheric neutrons: definition of a conventional system, Monte Carlo calculation of response functions, development of the response matrix, representation and semi-empirical verification of fluence response, uncertainty analysis, extension to high energies, and measurement tests of the spectrometer. He reports the use of a Monte Carlo simulation to characterize the spectrometer response in the high-energy range

A comparison of back propagation and Generalized Regression Neural Networks performance in neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Martínez-Blanco, Ma. del Rosario

2016-01-01

The process of unfolding the neutron energy spectrum has been subject of research for many years. Monte Carlo, iterative methods, the bayesian theory, the principle of maximum entropy are some of the methods used. The drawbacks associated with traditional unfolding procedures have motivated the research of complementary approaches. Back Propagation Neural Networks (BPNN), have been applied with success in neutron spectrometry and dosimetry domains, however, the structure and learning parameters are factors that highly impact in the networks performance. In ANN domain, Generalized Regression Neural Network (GRNN) is one of the simplest neural networks in term of network architecture and learning algorithm. The learning is instantaneous, requiring no time for training. Opposite to BPNN, a GRNN would be formed instantly with just a 1-pass training on the development data. In the network development phase, the only hurdle is to optimize the hyper-parameter, which is known as sigma, governing the smoothness of the network. The aim of this work was to compare the performance of BPNN and GRNN in the solution of the neutron spectrometry problem. From results obtained it can be observed that despite the very similar results, GRNN performs better than BPNN.

Neutron induced gamma spectrometry for on-line compositional analysis in coal conversion and fluidized-bed combustion plants

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Herzenberg, C.L.; O'Fallon, N.M.; Yarlagadda, B.S.; Doering, R.W.; Cohn, C.E.; Porges, K.G.; Duffey, D.

1977-01-01

Nuclear techniques involving relatively penetrating radiation may offer the possibility of non-invasive, continuous on-line instrumental monitoring which is representative of the full process stream. Prompt gamma rays following neutron capture are particularly attractive because the penetrating power of the neutrons and the, typically several MeV, capture gammas makes possible interrogation of material within a pipe. We are evaluating neutron capture gamma techniques for this application, both for elemental composition monitoring and for mass-flow measurement purposes, and this paper will present some recent work on composition analysis by neutron induced gamma spectrometry

Development of the neutron reference calibration field using a 252Cf standard source surrounded with PMMA moderators

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yoshida, T.; Kanai, K.; Tsujimura, N.

2002-01-01

The authors developed the neutron reference calibration fields using a 252 Cf standard source surrounded with PMMA moderators at the Japan Nuclear Cycle Development (JNC), Tokai Works. The moderators are co-axial, hollow cylinders made of lead-contained PMMA with a thickness of 13.5, 35.0, 59.5 and 77.0mm, and the 252 Cf source is guided to the geometric center of moderators by the pneumatic system. These fields can provide the moderated neutron spectra very similar to those encountered around the globe-boxes of the fabrication process of MOX (PuO 2 -UO 2 mixed oxide) fuel. The neutron energy spectrum at the reference calibration point was evaluated from the calculations by MCNP4B and the measurements by the INS-type Bonner multi-sphere spectrometer and the hydrogen-filled proportional counters. The calculated neutron spectra were in good agreements with the measured ones. These fields were characterized in terms of the neutron fluence rate, spectral composition and ambient dose equivalent rate, and have served for the response-characterization of various neutron survey instruments

Measurement of the energy spectrum of cosmic-ray induced neutrons aboard an ER-2 high-altitude airplane

CERN Document Server

Goldhagen, P E; Kniss, T; Reginatto, M; Singleterry, R C; Van Steveninck, W; Wilson, J W

2002-01-01

Crews working on present-day jet aircraft are a large occupationally exposed group with a relatively high average effective dose from galactic cosmic radiation. Crews of future high-speed commercial aircraft flying at higher altitudes would be even more exposed. To help reduce the significant uncertainties in calculations of such exposures, the atmospheric ionizing radiation (AIR) project, an international collaboration of 15 laboratories, made simultaneous radiation measurements with 14 instruments on five flights of a NASA ER-2 high-altitude aircraft. The primary AIR instrument was a highly sensitive extended-energy multisphere neutron spectrometer with lead and steel shells placed within the moderators of two of its 14 detectors to enhance response at high energies. Detector responses were calculated for neutrons and charged hadrons at energies up to 100 GeV using MCNPX. Neutron spectra were unfolded from the measured count rates using the new MAXED code. We have measured the cosmic-ray neutron spectrum (t...

Electrochemical lithiation of silicon electrodes. Neutron reflectometry and secondary ion mass spectrometry investigations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jerliu, Bujar; Doerrer, Lars; Hueger, Erwin [Technische Univ. Clausthal, Clausthal-Zellerfeld (Germany). AG Mikrokinetik; Seidlhofer, Beatrix-Kamelia; Steitz, Roland [Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin fuer Materialien und Energie GmbH, Berlin (Germany); Borchardt, Guenter; Schmidt, Harald [Technische Univ. Clausthal, Clausthal-Zellerfeld (Germany). AG Mikrokinetik; Clausthaler Zentrum fuer Materialtechnik (CZM), Clausthal-Zellerfeld (Germany)

2017-11-15

In-situ neutron reflectometry and ex-situ secondary ion mass spectrometry in combination with electrochemical methods were used to study the lithiation of amorphous silicon electrodes. For that purpose specially designed closed three-electrode electrochemical cells with thin silicon films as the working electrode and lithium as counter and reference electrodes were used. The neutron reflectometry results obtained in-situ during galvanostatic cycling show that the incorporation, redistribution and removal of Li in amorphous silicon during a lithiation cycle can be monitored. It was possible to measure the volume modification during lithiation, which is found to be rather independent of cycle number, current density and film thickness and in good agreement with first-principles calculations as given in literature. Indications for an inhomogeneous lithiation mechanism were found by secondary ion mass spectrometry measurements. Lithium tracer diffusion experiments indicate that the diffusivities inside the lithiated region (D > 10{sup -15} m{sup 2} s{sup -1}) are considerably higher than in pure amorphous silicon as known from literature. This suggests a kinetics based explanation for the occurrence of an inhomogeneous lithiation mechanism.

Development of the neutron reference calibration field using a {sup 252}Cf standard source surrounded with PMMA moderators

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yoshida, T.; Kanai, K.; Tsujimura, N. [Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Institute, Ibaraki-ken (Japan)

2002-07-01

The authors developed the neutron reference calibration fields using a {sup 252} Cf standard source surrounded with PMMA moderators at the Japan Nuclear Cycle Development (JNC), Tokai Works. The moderators are co-axial, hollow cylinders made of lead-contained PMMA with a thickness of 13.5, 35.0, 59.5 and 77.0mm, and the {sup 252} Cf source is guided to the geometric center of moderators by the pneumatic system. These fields can provide the moderated neutron spectra very similar to those encountered around the globe-boxes of the fabrication process of MOX (PuO{sub 2}-UO{sub 2} mixed oxide) fuel. The neutron energy spectrum at the reference calibration point was evaluated from the calculations by MCNP4B and the measurements by the INS-type Bonner multi-sphere spectrometer and the hydrogen-filled proportional counters. The calculated neutron spectra were in good agreements with the measured ones. These fields were characterized in terms of the neutron fluence rate, spectral composition and ambient dose equivalent rate, and have served for the response-characterization of various neutron survey instruments.

A comparison of back propagation and Generalized Regression Neural Networks performance in neutron spectrometry.

Science.gov (United States)

Martínez-Blanco, Ma Del Rosario; Ornelas-Vargas, Gerardo; Solís-Sánchez, Luis Octavio; Castañeda-Miranada, Rodrigo; Vega-Carrillo, Héctor René; Celaya-Padilla, José M; Garza-Veloz, Idalia; Martínez-Fierro, Margarita; Ortiz-Rodríguez, José Manuel

2016-11-01

The process of unfolding the neutron energy spectrum has been subject of research for many years. Monte Carlo, iterative methods, the bayesian theory, the principle of maximum entropy are some of the methods used. The drawbacks associated with traditional unfolding procedures have motivated the research of complementary approaches. Back Propagation Neural Networks (BPNN), have been applied with success in neutron spectrometry and dosimetry domains, however, the structure and learning parameters are factors that highly impact in the networks performance. In ANN domain, Generalized Regression Neural Network (GRNN) is one of the simplest neural networks in term of network architecture and learning algorithm. The learning is instantaneous, requiring no time for training. Opposite to BPNN, a GRNN would be formed instantly with just a 1-pass training on the development data. In the network development phase, the only hurdle is to optimize the hyper-parameter, which is known as sigma, governing the smoothness of the network. The aim of this work was to compare the performance of BPNN and GRNN in the solution of the neutron spectrometry problem. From results obtained it can be observed that despite the very similar results, GRNN performs better than BPNN. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A comparison of back propagation and generalized regression neural networks performance in neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Martinez B, M. R.; Solis S, L. O.; Castaneda M, R.; Vega C, H. R.

2015-10-01

The process of unfolding the neutron energy spectrum has been the subject of research for many years. Monte Carlo, iterative methods, the bayesian theory, the principle of maximum entropy are some of the methods used. The drawbacks associated with traditional unfolding procedures have motivated the need of complementary approaches. Back Propagation Neural Networks (BPNN), have been applied with success in the neutron spectrometry and dosimetry domains, however, the structure and the learning parameters are factors that contribute in a significant way in the networks performance. In artificial neural network domain, Generalized Regression Neural Network (GRNN) is one of the simplest neural networks in term of network architecture and learning algorithm. The learning is instantaneous, which mean require no time for training. Opposite to BPNN, a GRNN would be formed instantly with just a 1-pass training with the development data. In the network development phase, the only hurdle is to tune the hyper parameter, which is known as sigma, governing the smoothness of the network. The aim of this work was to compare the performance of BPNN and GRNN in the solution of the neutron spectrometry problem. From results obtained can be observed that despite the very similar results, GRNN performs better than BPNN. (Author)

A comparison of back propagation and generalized regression neural networks performance in neutron spectrometry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Martinez B, M. R.; Solis S, L. O.; Castaneda M, R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Ingenieria Electrica, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde 801, Col. Centro, 98000 Zacatecas, Zac. (Mexico); Vega C, H. R., E-mail: morvymm@yahoo.com.mx [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Estudios Nucleares, Cipres No. 10, Fracc. La Penuela, 98068 Zacatecas, Zac. (Mexico)

2015-10-15

The process of unfolding the neutron energy spectrum has been the subject of research for many years. Monte Carlo, iterative methods, the bayesian theory, the principle of maximum entropy are some of the methods used. The drawbacks associated with traditional unfolding procedures have motivated the need of complementary approaches. Back Propagation Neural Networks (BPNN), have been applied with success in the neutron spectrometry and dosimetry domains, however, the structure and the learning parameters are factors that contribute in a significant way in the networks performance. In artificial neural network domain, Generalized Regression Neural Network (GRNN) is one of the simplest neural networks in term of network architecture and learning algorithm. The learning is instantaneous, which mean require no time for training. Opposite to BPNN, a GRNN would be formed instantly with just a 1-pass training with the development data. In the network development phase, the only hurdle is to tune the hyper parameter, which is known as sigma, governing the smoothness of the network. The aim of this work was to compare the performance of BPNN and GRNN in the solution of the neutron spectrometry problem. From results obtained can be observed that despite the very similar results, GRNN performs better than BPNN. (Author)

A systematic approach to personnel neutron monitoring

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Griffith, R.V.; Hankins, D.E.

1980-01-01

In selection, calibration and interpretation of personnel neutron dosimeters used in radiation protection, adequate attention is often not given to matching the characteristics of the dosimeter with the quality of the neutron field. A particular concern is the use of albedo detectors which have little energy response similarity to the neutron dose equivalent conversion curve. At the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory we have developed a system for dosimeter calibration and neutron field characterization using Bonner spheres and remmeters. Rapid surveys of the work area with detectors in 3-in and 9-in polyethylene spheres establish a qualitative estimate of spectral variation found in the facility. We also use this data to determine the appropriate albedo dosimeter calibration factors. At several locations representing the spectral range, multisphere spectra measure-ments are made and the spectrum weighted dose equivalent rates calculated. These rates are compared with survey instrument results to establish correction factors for the relative over- or under-response expected from these instruments, particularly in highly moderated neutron fields where remmeters overrespond. We also use the spectral information to determine the appropriateness of dosimeters considered for future use. This technique has been applied at power reactors to provide information valuable to selection of proper personnel dosimeters. We find that the spectral range is sufficiently narrow that albedo detectors can be used with confidence. On the other hand, most of the dose occurs at energies below the effective threshold NTA film. (author)

The energy spectrum of cosmic-ray induced neutrons measured on an airplane over a wide range of altitude and latitude

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Goldhagen, P.; Clem, J. M.; Wilson, J. W.

2004-01-01

Crews of high-altitude aircraft are exposed to radiation from galactic cosmic rays (GCRs). To help determine such exposures, the Atmospheric Ionizing Radiation Project, an international collaboration of 15 laboratories, made simultaneous radiation measurements with 14 instruments on a NASA ER-2 high-altitude airplane. The primary instrument was a sensitive extended-energy multisphere neutron spectrometer. Its detector responses were calculated for energies up to 100 GeV using the radiation transport code MCNPX 2.5.d with improved nuclear models and including the effects of the airplane structure. New calculations of GCR-induced particle spectra in the atmosphere were used to correct for spectrometer counts produced by protons, pions and light nuclear ions. Neutron spectra were unfolded from the corrected measured count rates using the deconvolution code MAXED 3.1. The results for the measured cosmic-ray neutron spectrum (thermal to >10 GeV), total neutron fluence rate, and neutron dose equivalent and effective dose rates, and their dependence on altitude and geomagnetic cut-off agree well with results from recent calculations of GCR-induced neutron spectra. (authors)

Boron concentration measurements by alpha spectrometry and quantitative neutron autoradiography in cells and tissues treated with different boronated formulations and administration protocols

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bortolussi, Silva; Ciani, Laura; Postuma, Ian; Protti, Nicoletta; Luca Reversi,; Bruschi, Piero; Ferrari, Cinzia; Cansolino, Laura; Panza, Luigi; Ristori, Sandra; Altieri, Saverio

2014-01-01

The possibility to measure boron concentration with high precision in tissues that will be irradiated represents a fundamental step for a safe and effective BNCT treatment. In Pavia, two techniques have been used for this purpose, a quantitative method based on charged particles spectrometry and a boron biodistribution imaging based on neutron autoradiography. A quantitative method to determine boron concentration by neutron autoradiography has been recently set-up and calibrated for the measurement of biological samples, both solid and liquid, in the frame of the feasibility study of BNCT. This technique was calibrated and the obtained results were cross checked with those of α spectrometry, in order to validate them. The comparisons were performed using tissues taken form animals treated with different boron administration protocols. Subsequently the quantitative neutron autoradiography was employed to measure osteosarcoma cell samples treated with BPA and with new boronated formulations. - Highlights: • A method for 10B measurements in samples based on neutron autoradiography was developed. • The results were compared with those of alpha spectrometry applied on tissue and cell samples. • Boronated liposomes were developed and administered to osteosarcoma cell cultures. • Neutron autoradiography was employed to measure boron concentration due to liposomes. • Liposomes were proved to be more effective in concentrating boron in cells than BPA

Neutron spectra measurements and neutron flux monitoring for radiation damage purposes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Osmera, B.; Petr, J.; Racek, J.; Rumler, C.; Turzik, Z.; Franc, L.; Holman, M.; Hogel, J.; Kovarik, K.; Marik, P.; Vespalec, R.; Albert, D.; Hansen, V.; Vogel, W.

1979-09-01

Neutron spectra were measured for the TR-0, WWR-S and SR-0 experimental reactors using the recoil proton method, 6 Li spectrometry, scintillation spectrometry and activation detectors in a variety of conditions. Neutron fluence was also measured and calculated. (M.S.)

Determination of trace elements in Katana (Japanese sword) by neutron activation analysis with multidimensional γ-ray spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Okada, Y.; Hirai, S.; Ohya, S.; Kimura, Atsushi; Hatsukawa, Yuichi; Toh, Yosuke; Koizumi, Mitsuo; Oshima, Masumi

2006-01-01

In this study, we tried to measure trace elements (As and Sb) in Katana (Japanese swords) by multidimensional γ-ray spectrometry method (GEMINI-II) and conventional counting method for neutron activation analysis (NAA). The determined values by GEMINI-II and conventional counting were in good agreement with. Using the multidimensional γ-ray spectrometry (GEMINI-II) to determine As and Sb was improved by 7 times and 10 times compared with the conventional counting method. (author)

A new neutron spectrometry system for in-core and out-core application at WWER

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mehner, H.C.; Boehmer, B.; Hagemann, U.; Nagel, S.; Schoene, M.; Stephan, I.

1985-01-01

An automated measuring system based on a newly-developed multi-component wire activation detector (MWAD) is presented which has been applied for neutron spectrometry inside WWER. The MWAD consisting of Au, Mn, Mo, Ni, and W is designed to determine the neutron spectrum in the thermal, epithermal and fast energy region by a single gamma-ray spectrum measurement. Investigations were carried out within an ordinary fuel assembly of the Greifswald NPS (WWER-440) as well as in experimental fuel assembly of the Rheinsberg NPS (WWER-70). The evaluation of the measurements was done with the newly-developed adjustment code COSA based on the generalized least square method. (author)

Comparison of direct alpha spectrometry and neutron activation analysis of aerosol filters for determination of workplace thorium air concentrations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hoetzl, H.; Winkler, R. [Institut fuer Strahlenschutz, Oberschleibheim (Germany); Riedmann, W.; Weinmueller, K. [Strahlenschutz und Isotopentechnik, Muenchen (Germany)

1996-05-01

Direct alpha spectrometry with three different filter types was investigated for the determination of thorium air concentrations at workplaces in the manufacturing process of discharge lamps containing thoriated tungsten electrodes. The method was compared with neutron activation analysis over an activity range of five orders of magnitude. Within the experimental limits of error, both methods were found to be comparable with respect to sensitivity and accuracy. The advantage of direct alpha spectrometry, however, is that it is less laborious than neutron activation analysis and that it supplies information on the degree of radioactive equilibrium of the thorium series, which is important with regard to the estimation of dose. 20 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab.

A new computation tool for neutron spectrometry and dosimetry; Una nueva herramiento de computo para la espectrometria y dosimetria de neutrones

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Martinez B, M. R.; Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Estudios Nucleares, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde No. 801, Col. Centro, Zacatecas (Mexico)], e-mail: mrosariomb@yahoo.com.mx

2009-10-15

By using the integrated accounts of spectrometric system of Bonner spheres is possible to reconstruct the neutron spectrum using various methods such as: Monte Carlo, the parameterization and iterative methods. The response matrix, counting rates and neutron spectrum are intimately related through the integral-differential of Fredholm of first type. however, the weight of Bonner spheres system, the procedure of spectra reconstruction, the need of a expert user, the high time consumption, the need to use a reconstruction code (BUNKI, SAND, among others) and the spectrum resolution, are some of problems that this system presents. The above difficulties have motivated the development of complementary procedures such as maximum entropy, genetic algorithms and artificial neural networks. In recent years, using neural network technology has become an alternative procedure in the nuclear science research area, considering a replacement for classical techniques used for years. In previous works, was used a new method called robust design methodology of artificial neural networks, to construct various network topologies capable of solving the problems of neutron spectrometry and dosimetry, however noted that not exist tools for end-user that allow test and validate the designed networks. This paper presents the development of a software for neutronic spectrometry and dosimetry, based on information extracted from an artificial neural network designed in previous work, through the robust design methodology of artificial neural networks with the following characteristics: was designed in a user graphical interface easy to use, speed on the application execution, unlike other deconvolution codes, not is necessary to select and initial spectrum for spectrum reconstruction, as an additional element to this tool, besides spectrum, the calculation is performed simultaneous of 13 equivalent dose from just counting rates from a spectrometric system of Bonner spheres. (Author)

Test and validation of the iterative code for the neutrons spectrometry and dosimetry: NSDUAZ; Prueba y validacion del codigo iterativo para la espectrometria y dosimetria de neutrones: NSDUAZ

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Reyes H, A.; Ortiz R, J. M.; Reyes A, A.; Castaneda M, R.; Solis S, L. O.; Vega C, H. R., E-mail: alfredo_reyesh@hotmail.com [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Ingenieria Electrica, Av. Lopez Velarde 801, Col. Centro, 98000 Zacatecas (Mexico)

2014-08-15

In this work was realized the test and validation of an iterative code for neutronic spectrometry known as Neutron Spectrometry and Dosimetry of the Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas (NSDUAZ). This code was designed in a user graph interface, friendly and intuitive in the environment programming of LabVIEW using the iterative algorithm known as SPUNIT. The main characteristics of the program are: the automatic selection of the initial spectrum starting from the neutrons spectra catalog compiled by the International Atomic Energy Agency, the possibility to generate a report in HTML format that shows in graph and numeric way the neutrons flowing and calculates the ambient dose equivalent with base to this. To prove the designed code, the count rates of a spectrometer system of Bonner spheres were used with a detector of {sup 6}LiI(Eu) with 7 polyethylene spheres with diameter of 0, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10 and 12. The count rates measured with two neutron sources: {sup 252}Cf and {sup 239}PuBe were used to validate the code, the obtained results were compared against those obtained using the BUNKIUT code. We find that the reconstructed spectra present an error that is inside the limit reported in the literature that oscillates around 15%. Therefore, it was concluded that the designed code presents similar results to those techniques used at the present time. (Author)

Neutron and photon spectrometry with liquid scintillation detectors in mixed fields

CERN Document Server

Klein, H

2002-01-01

Liquid scintillation detectors of type NE213 or BC501A are well suited and routinely used for spectrometry in mixed n-gamma-fields. Neutron- and photon-induced pulse height spectra may be simultaneously recorded making use of the n/gamma-discrimination capability based on pulse shape analysis. The light output functions for the detected secondary charged particles, i.e. electrons, positrons, protons and other charged reaction products, and the pulse height resolution function must carefully be determined. This can be done experimentally, in part via an iterative procedure by comparison with calculations. The response functions can then be reliably calculated by Monte Carlo simulations. Photon response functions calculated with the PHRESP code, which was developed on the basis of the EGS4+PRESTA program package, are in very good agreement with calibrations up to 17 MeV, both in shape and absolute scale. Similarly, neutron response functions calculated with the NRESP7 code well describe the pulse height spectra...

In-Situ Spectrometry of Neutrons

Science.gov (United States)

Maurer, Richard H.

1999-01-01

High energy charged particles of extra-galactic, galactic and solar origin collide with spacecraft structures in Earth orbit outside the atmosphere and in interplanetary travel beyond the Earth's magnetosphere. These primaries create a number of secondary particles inside the structures that can produce a significant ionizing radiation environment. This radiation is a threat to long term inhabitants or travelers for space missions and produces an increased risk of cancer and DNA damage. The primary high energy cosmic rays and trapped protons collide with common spacecraft materials such as aluminum and silicon and create secondary particles inside structures that are mostly protons and neutrons. Charged protons are readily detected and instruments are already in existence for this task. Neutrons are electrically neutral and therefore much more difficult to measure and detect. These neutrons are reported to contribute 30-60% of the dose inside space structures and cannot be ignored. Currently there is no compact, portable and real time neutron detector instrumentation available for use inside spacecraft or on planetary surfaces where astronauts will live and work. We propose to design and build a portable, low power and robust neutron spectrometer that will measure the neutron spectrum from 10 KeV to 500 MeV with at least 10% energy resolution in the various energy intervals. This instrument will monitor the existing neutron environment both inside spacecraft structures and on planetary surfaces to determine the safest living areas, warn of high fluxes associated with solar storms and assist the NSBRI Radiation Effects Team in making an accurate assessment of increased cancer risk and DNA damage to astronauts. The instrument uses a highly efficient proportional counter Helium 3 tube at the lowest energy intervals where .equivalent damage factors for tissue are the highest (10 KeV-2 MeV). The Helium 3 tube may be shielded with a cadmium absorber to eliminate the much

Single Crystal Filters for Neutron Spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Habib, N.

2008-01-01

A study of neutron transmission properties trough a large single crystals specimens of Si, Ge, Pb, Bi and sapphire at 300 K and 80 K have been made for a wide range of neutron energies. The effectiveness of such filters is given by the ratio of the total cross-section of unwanted epithermal neutrons to that the desired thermal neutron beam and by the optimum choice of the crystal orientation, its mosaic spread, thickness and temperature.Our study indicates that sapphire is significantly more effective than the others for a wide range of neutron energies

Determination of gold in natural waters by neutron activation-#betta#-spectrometry after preconcentration on activated charcoal

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hamilton, T.W.; Ellis, J.; Florence, T.M.

1983-01-01

A method for the determination of gold at very low levels in waters is presented. The method involves batchwise pre-concentration of gold from 1 l of water at pH 3-4 onto 0.1 g of activated charcoal by shaking for 5 min and subsequent treatment of the activated charcoal by instrumental neutron activation-#betta#-spectrometry. Activated charcoal quantitatively adsorbs ionic and colloidal gold from solutions prepared with distilled water and also from natural surface waters spiked and equilibrated with these two forms of gold. Three ion-exchange resins were evaluated for pre-concentration purposes; ionic gold removal was quantitative but colloidal gold removal was incomplete. Electrodeposition at a carbon fibre electrode gave similar results. The charcoal pre-concentration technique was tested on solutions containing 198 Au tracer and a total gold concentration of 1 μg l - 1 . The limit of detection of total gold (ionic and colloidal) for the carbon adsorption/neutron activation-#betta#-spectrometry procedure is 0.3 ng l - 1 . The method was used to determine gold in surface waters from auriferous regions. (Auth.)

Design of an automatic sample changer for the measurement of neutron flux by gamma spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gago, Javier; Bruna, Ruben; Baltuano, Oscar; Montoya, Eduardo; Descreaux, Killian

2014-01-01

This paper presents calculus, selection and components design for the construction of an automatic system in order to measure neutron flux in a working nuclear reactor by the gamma spectrometry technique using samples irradiated on the RP-10 nucleus. This system will perform the measurement of interchanging 100 samples in a programed and automatic way, reducing operation time by the user and obtaining more accurate measures. (authors).

Burn-up measurements coupling gamma spectrometry and neutron measurement

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Toubon, H.; Pin, P. [AREVA/CANBERRA, 1 rue des Herons, 78182 St Quentin-en-Yvelines Cedex (France); Lebrun, A. [IAEA, Wagramer Strasse 5, PO Box 100, Vienna (Austria); Oriol, L.; Saurel, N. [CEA Cadarache, 13108 Saint Paul Lez Durance Cedex (France); Gain, T. [AREVA/COGEMA Reprocessing Business Unit, La Hague, 50444 Beaumont Hague Cedex (France)

2006-07-01

The need to apply for burn-up credit arises with the increase of the initial enrichment of nuclear fuel. When burn-up credit is used in criticality safety studies, it is often necessary to confirm it by measurement. For the last 10 years, CANBERRA has manufactured the PYTHON system for such measurements. However, the method used in the PYTHON itself uses certain reactor data to arrive at burn-up estimates. Based on R and D led by CEA and COGEMA in the framework of burn-up measurement for burn-up credit and safeguards applications, CANBERRA is developing the next generation of burn-up measurement device. This new product, named SMOPY, is able to measure burn-up of any kind of irradiated fuel assembly with a combination of gamma spectrometry and passive neutron measurements. The measurement data is used as input to the CESAR depletion code, which has been developed and qualified by CEA and COGEMA for burn-up credit determinations. In this paper, we explain the complementary nature of the gamma and neutron measurements. In addition, we draw on our previous experience from PYTHON system and from COGEMA La Hague to show what types of evaluations are required to qualify the SMOPY system, to estimate its uncertainties, and to detect discrepancies in the fuel data given by the reactor plant to characterize the irradiated fuel assembly. (authors)

Burn-up measurements coupling gamma spectrometry and neutron measurement

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Toubon, H.; Pin, P.; Lebrun, A.; Oriol, L.; Saurel, N.; Gain, T.

2006-01-01

The need to apply for burn-up credit arises with the increase of the initial enrichment of nuclear fuel. When burn-up credit is used in criticality safety studies, it is often necessary to confirm it by measurement. For the last 10 years, CANBERRA has manufactured the PYTHON system for such measurements. However, the method used in the PYTHON itself uses certain reactor data to arrive at burn-up estimates. Based on R and D led by CEA and COGEMA in the framework of burn-up measurement for burn-up credit and safeguards applications, CANBERRA is developing the next generation of burn-up measurement device. This new product, named SMOPY, is able to measure burn-up of any kind of irradiated fuel assembly with a combination of gamma spectrometry and passive neutron measurements. The measurement data is used as input to the CESAR depletion code, which has been developed and qualified by CEA and COGEMA for burn-up credit determinations. In this paper, we explain the complementary nature of the gamma and neutron measurements. In addition, we draw on our previous experience from PYTHON system and from COGEMA La Hague to show what types of evaluations are required to qualify the SMOPY system, to estimate its uncertainties, and to detect discrepancies in the fuel data given by the reactor plant to characterize the irradiated fuel assembly. (authors)

Neutron dosimetry and spectrometry with Bonner spheres. Working out a log-normal reference matrix

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zaborowski, Henrick.

1981-11-01

From the experimental and theoretical studies made upon the BONNER's spheres System with a I 6 Li(Eu) crystal and with a miniaturized 3 He counter we get the normalized energy response functions R*sub(i)(E). This normalization is obtained by the mathematization of the Resolution Function R*(i,E) in the Log-Normal distribution hypothesis to mono energetic neutrons given in April 1976 to the International Symposium on Californium 252. The fit of the Log-Normal Hypothesis with the experimental and Theoretical data is very satisfactory. The parameter's tabulated values allow a precise interpolation, at all energies between 0.4 eV and 15 MeV and for all spheres diameters between 2 and 12 inches, of the discretized R*sub(ij) Reference Matrix for the applications to neutron dosimetry and spectrometry [fr

Development of the unfolding procedures in fast neutron scintillation spectrometry; Razvoj unfolding procedura u scintilacionoj spektrometriji brzih neutrona

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Marinkovic, P [Elektrotehnicki fakultet, Belgrade (Yugoslavia)

1988-07-01

Two unfolding procedures have been developed for obtaining fast neutron spectrum from proton-recoil spectrum assigned for spectrometry with organic scintillators. First is the method of differentiation of proton-recoil spectrum, and the second is the method based on solution of integral equation of Fredholm of first kind. (author)

Characterisation of mixed neutron-photon workplace fields at nuclear facilities by spectrometry (energy and direction) within the EVIDOS project

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Luszik-Bhadra, M.; Bartlett, D.; Bolognese-Milsztajn, T.; Boschung, M.; Coeck, M.; Curzio, G.; D'Errico, F.; Fiechtner, A.; Lacoste, V.; Lindborg, L.; Reginatto, M.; Schuhmacher, H.; Tanner, R.; Vanhavere, F.

2007-01-01

Within the EC project EVIDOS, 17 different mixed neutron-photon workplace fields at nuclear facilities (boiling water reactor, pressurised water reactor, research reactor, fuel processing, storage of spent fuel) were characterised using conventional Bonner sphere spectrometry and newly developed direction spectrometers. The results of the analysis, using Bayesian parameter estimation methods and different unfolding codes, some of them especially adapted to simultaneously unfold energy and direction distributions of the neutron fluence, showed that neutron spectra differed strongly at the different places, both in energy and direction distribution. The implication of the results for the determination of reference values for radiation protection quantities (ambient dose equivalent, personal dose equivalent and effective dose) and the related uncertainties are discussed. (authors)

Neutron spectrum measurement inside containment vessel at Kori nuclear power plant unit 1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Han, J. M.; Kim, T. W.; Kim, K. D.; Youn, C. H. [Nuclear Environment Technology Institute, Taejon (Korea, Republic of)

2003-10-01

There would be a case for the radiation worker have to work inside of the containment vessel to inspect or repair reactor facilities. In this case, the information about distribution of neutron field is needed to estimate neutron exposure dose of worker. Neutron spectra were measured by BMS(Bonner Multisphere Spectrometer) at 4 points of 6 ft and 20 ft, 2 points of 44 ft, 5 points of 70 ft in containment vessel of Kori unit 1. From the calculation, the following results were obtained. Neutron fluxes of 6 ft were between 2.623 x 10{sup 2} and 2.746 x 10{sup 4} neutron/cm{sup 2}{center_dot}sec, average neutron energies were between 9.209 x 10{sup -6} and 3.377 x 10{sup -2} MeV, equivalent doses of neutron were between 0.025 and 2.675 mSv/hr. Neutron fluxes of 20 ft were between 1.771 x 10{sup 1} and 1.682 x 10{sup 3} neutron/cm{sup 2}{center_dot}sec, average neutron energies were between 6.084 x 10{sup -6} and 2.988 x 10{sup -1} MeV, equivalent doses of neutron were between 0.004 and 0.228 mSv/hr. Neutron fluxes of 44 ft were between 3.367 x 10{sup 2} and 3.483 x 10{sup 2} neutron / cm{sup 2}{center_dot}sec, average neutron energies were between 3.962 x 10{sup -2} and 7.360 x 10{sup -2} MeV, equivalent doses of neutron were between 0.069 and 0.089 mSv/hr. Neutron fluxes of 70 ft were between 4.553 x 10{sup 3} and 1.407 x 10{sup 4} neutron/cm{sup 2}{center_dot}sec, average neutron energies were between 3.668 x 10{sup -4} and 6.764 x 10{sup -2} MeV, equivalent doses of neutron were between 0.449 and 2.660 mSv/hr.

Correcting the effects of the matrix using capture gamma-ray spectrometry: Application to measurement by Active Neutron Interrogation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Baudry, G.

2003-11-01

In the field of the measurement of low masses of fissile material ( 235 U, 239 Pu, 241 Pu) in radioactive waste drums, the Active Neutron Interrogation is a non-destructive method achieving good results. It does however remain reliant upon uncertainties related to the matrix effects on interrogation and fission neutrons. The aim of this thesis is to develop a correction method able to take into account these matrix effects by quantifying the amount of absorbent materials (chlorine and hydrogen) in a 118- liter homogeneous matrix. The main idea is to use the gamma-ray spectrometry of gamma emitted by neutron captures to identify and quantify the composition of the matrix. An indicator from its chlorine content is then deduced in order to choose the calibration coefficient which best represents the real composition of the matrix. This document firstly presents the needs of control and characterization of radioactive objects, and the means used in the field of nuclear measurement. Emphases is put in particular on the Active Neutron Interrogation method. The matrices of interest are those made of light technological waste (density ≤ 0,4 g/cm 3 ) containing hydrogenated and chlorinated materials. The advantages of gamma-rays emitted by neutron captures for the determination of a chlorine content indicator of the matrices and the principles of the correction method are then explained. Measurements have been firstly realized with an existing Neutron Interrogation device (PROMETHEE 6). Such measurements have proven its inadequacy: no signal from the matrix hydrogen was detected, due to an intense signal from the polyethylene contained in some cell elements. Moreover, the matrix chlorine content appeared difficult to be measured. A new and specific device, named REGAIN and dedicated to active gamma-rays spectrometry, was defined with the Monte-Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) code. The experiments conducted with this new device made it possible to detect the hydrogen from the

Neutron spectrometry around the VENUS reactor using Monte Carlo simulations and Bonner spheres measurements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Coeck, M.; Lacoste, V.; Muller, H.

2005-01-01

Full text: Reliable determination of neutron doses in workplaces is still an issue in the field of radiation protection. The EVIDOS project ('evaluation of individual dosimetry in mixed neutron and photon radiation fields', 5FP supported by the EC) aims to evaluate different methods for individual dosimetry in mixed neutron-photon workplaces in nuclear industry, and focuses on the neutron component. This objective cannot be reached on the basis of investigations in calibration fields only, but requires studies in representative workplaces of the nuclear industry. The VENUS reactor, a zero-power research reactor established by the SCK·CEN, was chosen as one of these workplaces. This paper presents the assessment of the neutron field near the VENUS reactor, particularly in areas near the reactor shielding and in the control room where operators are frequently present during a reactor run. From the neutron spectrum, an evaluation of H*(10) can be made. MCNPX simulations were performed to obtain a reference spectrum at the two areas of interest. Using a k eff calculation the source term was acquired which was subsequently used in a fixed source MCNPX model of the complete shielding geometry of the reactor hall. Reference spectrometry was also performed using a Bonner spheres system. The unfolding spectra were obtained using the NUBAY and GRAVEL codes. The NUBAY program, based on Bayesian parameter estimation methods, assumes a parameterized spectrum and provides posterior probability distributions for both the set of parameters and a set of integral quantities. The code GRAVEL, an iterative algorithm based on SAND-II, was used with various default spectra, among them the NUBAY solution. Bonner spheres data GRAVEL unfolding was also performed using the MCNPX spectra as an initial guess. In this paper the outcome of both calculations and measurements is compared. (author)

Compton suppression spectrometry for analysis of short-lived neutron activation products in foods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anderson, D.L.; Cunningham, W.C.

2008-01-01

Compton suppression spectrometry was used to analyze foods for elements with short-lived neutron activation products (half-lives of about 2 minutes to 1.5 days). Analysis conditions were optimized to provide quality assurance analyses for iodine in FDA's Total Diet Study. Iodine mass fractions (0.075 to 2.03 mg/kg) were measured in 19 of 42 foods analyzed, with limits of detection (LODs) ranging from 0.03 to 1.4 mg/kg, mostly depending on NaCl content. LODs were lowered by up to a factor of 2 for 16 elements. Suppression factors ranged from about 2 to 8 over the energy range 400 to 3200 keV. (author)

Determination of U, Th and K in bricks by gamma -ray spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence analysis and neutron activation analysis

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Bártová, H.; Kučera, Jan; Musílek, L.; Trojek, T.; Gregorová, E.

2017-01-01

Roč. 140, NOV (2017), s. 161-166 ISSN 0969-806X R&D Projects: GA MŠk LM2015056 Institutional support: RVO:61389005 Keywords : Gamma-ray spectrometry * neutron activation analysis * environmental dosimetry Subject RIV: CB - Analytical Chemistry , Separation OBOR OECD: Analytical chemistry Impact factor: 1.315, year: 2016

Elemental analysis using instrumental neutron activation analysis and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry: a comparative study

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chung, Yong Sam; Choi, Kwang Soon; Moon, Jong Hwa; Kim, Sun Ha; Lim, Jong Myoung; Kim, Young Jin; Quraishi, Shamshad Begum

2003-05-01

Elemental analyses for certified reference materials were carried out using instrumental neutron activation analysis and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry. Five Certified Reference Materials (CRM) were selected for the study on comparative analysis of environmental samples. The CRM are Soil (NIST SRM 2709), Coal fly ash (NIST SRM 1633a), urban dust (NIST SRM 1649a) and air particulate on filter media (NIST SRM 2783 and human hair (GBW 09101)

Fast neutron spectrometry by bolometers lithium target for the reduction of background experiences of direct detection of dark matter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gironnet, J.

2010-01-01

Fast neutron spectrometry is a common interest for both direct dark matter detection and for nuclear research centres. Fast neutrons are usually detected indirectly. Neutrons are first slowed down by moderating materials for being detected in low energy range. Nevertheless, these detection techniques are and are limited in energy resolution. A new kind of fast neutron spectroscopy has been developed at the Institut d'Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS) in the aim of having a better knowledge of neutron backgrounds by the association of the bolometric technique with neutron sensitive crystals containing Li. Lithium-6 is indeed an element which has one the highest cross section for neutron capture with the 6 Li(n,α) 3 H reaction. This reaction releases 4,78 MeV tagging energetically each neutron capture. In particular for fast neutrons, the total energy measured by the bolometer would be the sum of this energy reaction and of the incoming fast neutron energy. To validate this principle, a spectrometer for fast neutrons, compact and semi-transportable, was built in IAS. This cryogenic detector, operated at 300 - 400 mK, consists of a 0.5 g LiF 95% 6 Li enriched crystal read out by a NTD-Ge sensor. This PhD thesis was on the study of the spectrometer characteristics, from the first measurements at IAS, to the measurements in the nuclear research centre of the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) until the final calibration with the Amande instrument of the Institut de Radioprotection et de Surete Nucleaire (IRSN). (author)

Results and comments on the gamma spectrometry examinations carried out on PWR and fast neutron fuel elements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pineira, Thomas; Mouchnino, Michel; Juste, Guy; Vignesoult, Nicole.

1980-05-01

The gamma spectrometry analyses on the fuel elements of PWR and fast neutron systems have experienced a significant growth in the CEA. This nondestructive, quick, inexpensive and quantitative method, seems to us particularly advantageous for qualifying the behavior of fuel under irradiation. However, in order to use it to the maximum, it must have reached a high degree of automation and the interpretation of the results must be the outcome of a coherent team that includes gamma spectrometry and fuel element specialists, since the growth of hot cell gamma spectrometry involves the processing of a considerable number of data upon which the quality of the results depends (large number of spectra per pencil analyzed, dimension of the 2000 or 4000 channel spectra, number of lines studied, etc.). Therefore the need to make the most of the information and, in particular, to present the results in a form suitable for direct processing in a minimum response time, requires a highly automated system. Further, the more specific results of gamma spectrometry correlated to the metallurgical results obtained in the laboratories should contribute efficiently to obtaining major information [fr

Neutron activation analysis of lipsticks using gamma-ray spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mirsa, G.; Mittal, V.K.

2004-01-01

Neutron activation analysis with gamma-ray spectrometry was used to measure the concentrations of various elements in lipsticks of popular Indian and foreign brands. The aim of the present work was to study the possibility of existence of trace elements in samples of lipsticks (the ingredients of which are mostly organic in nature) and to see whether trace elements could distinguish lipsticks of different Indian and foreign brands from the forensic point of view apart from their inter-se differentiation. In the different samples of lipsticks that were analysed the following elements were detected: Au, Ba, Br, Ca, Cs, Fe, Na, Ru, Sb, Sc, Ta, Yb, Zn, Rb and Se. It was found that inter-se differentiation of lipsticks was possible on the basis of concentrations of trace elements and their profile. Concentration of bromine in samples of lipsticks identified lipsticks of different Indian brands. Samples of lipsticks of Indian and foreign brands could be differentiated on the basis of concentrations of cesium, antimony and scandium which were found to be higher in foreign brands as compared to those in Indian brands. (authors)

Determination of the neutron activation profile of core drill samples by gamma-ray spectrometry.

Science.gov (United States)

Gurau, D; Boden, S; Sima, O; Stanga, D

2018-04-01

This paper provides guidance for determining the neutron activation profile of core drill samples taken from the biological shield of nuclear reactors using gamma spectrometry measurements. Thus, it provides guidance for selecting a model of the right form to fit data and using least squares methods for model fitting. The activity profiles of two core samples taken from the biological shield of a nuclear reactor were determined. The effective activation depth and the total activity of core samples along with their uncertainties were computed by Monte Carlo simulation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of metal and radionuclide data from neutron activation and acid-digestion-based spectrometry analyses of background soils. Significance in environmental restoration

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lee, S.Y.; Watkins, D.R.; Jackson, B.L.; Schmoyer, R.L.; Lietzke, D.A.; Burgoa, B.B.; Branson, J.T.; Ammons, J.T.

1997-01-01

A faster, more cost-effective, and higher-quality data acquisition for natural background-level metals and radionuclides in soils is needed for remedial investigations of contaminated sites. The advantages and disadvantages of neutron activation analysis (NAA) compared with those of acid-digestion-based spectrometry (ADS) methods were evaluated using Al, Sb, As, Cr, Co, Fe, Mg, Mn, Hg, K, Ag, 232 Th, 235 U, 238 U, V, and Zn data. The ADS methods used for this project were inductively coupled plasma (ICP), ICP-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and alpha spectrometry. Scatter plots showed that the NAA results for As, Co, Fe, Mn, 232 Th, and 238 U are reasonably correlated with the results from the other analytical methods. Compared to NAA, however, the ADS methods underestimated Al, Cr, Mg, K, V, and Zn. Because of the high detection limits of ADS methods, the scatter plots of Sb, Hg, and Ag did not show a definite relationship. The NAA results were highly correlated with the alpha spectrometry results for 232T h and 238 U but poorly correlated for 235 U. The NAA, including the delayed neutron counting, was a far superior technique for quantifying background levels of radionuclides ( 232 Th, 235 U, and 238 U) and metals (Al, Cr, Mg, K, V, and Zn) in soils. (author)

Neutronic spectrometry measurements in sodium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Perlini, G.; Acerbis, S.

1987-01-01

Measurements were made of neutronic penetration in sodium, which could serve as a reference and as a benchmark for computer codes. The model employed consisted of an assembly of 7 containers full of sodium for a total of 10 tons and a useful length of almost 4 metres. Measurements were performed at various depths along the central axis of the structure with proton recoil proportional counters. The energy band explored was between 100 and 650 keV. Here we report not only the original spectra of the impulses but also the neutronic spectra found by unfolding with the SPEC-4 code

Diagnosing implosion performance at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) by means of neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Frenje, J.A.; Casey, D.T.; Johnson, M. Gatu; Bionta, R.; Bond, E.J.; Caggiano, J.A.; Cerjan, C.; Edwards, J.; Eckart, M.; Fittinghoff, D.N.; Friedrich, S.; Glenzer, S.; Haan, S.; Hatarik, R.; Hatchett, S.; Jones, O.S.; Glebov, V.Yu.; Knauer, J.P.; Grim, G.; Kilkenny, J.D.

2013-01-01

The neutron spectrum from a cryogenically layered deuterium–tritium (dt) implosion at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) provides essential information about the implosion performance. From the measured primary-neutron spectrum (13–15 MeV), yield (Y n ) and hot-spot ion temperature (T i ) are determined. From the scattered neutron yield (10–12 MeV) relative to Y n , the down-scatter ratio, and the fuel areal density (ρR) are determined. These implosion parameters have been diagnosed to an unprecedented accuracy with a suite of neutron-time-of-flight spectrometers and a magnetic recoil spectrometer implemented in various locations around the NIF target chamber. This provides good implosion coverage and excellent measurement complementarity required for reliable measurements of Y n , T i and ρR, in addition to ρR asymmetries. The data indicate that the implosion performance, characterized by the experimental ignition threshold factor, has improved almost two orders of magnitude since the first shot taken in September 2010. ρR values greater than 1 g cm −2 are readily achieved. Three-dimensional semi-analytical modelling and numerical simulations of the neutron-spectrometry data, as well as other data for the hot spot and main fuel, indicate that a maximum hot-spot pressure of ∼150 Gbar has been obtained, which is almost a factor of two from the conditions required for ignition according to simulations. Observed Y n are also 3–10 times lower than predicted. The conjecture is that the observed pressure and Y n deficits are partly explained by substantial low-mode ρR asymmetries, which may cause inefficient conversion of shell kinetic energy to hot-spot thermal energy at stagnation. (paper)

Relative evaluation of neutron activation, X-ray fluorescence and spark source mass spectrometry for multielement analysis of geothermal waters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Blommaert, W.; Vandelannoote, R.; Van't Dack, L.; Gijbels, R.; Van Grieken, R.

1980-01-01

To sulfide geothermal waters from the French Pyrenees region and bicarbonate and chloride waters from the French Vosges area, all of the following analysis techniques were applied in order to compose a broad inventory of trace elements: (1) for the dissolved metarial: neutron activation analysis after a freeze-drying step using a very short cycle, short cycle or long cycle, neutron activation after co-crystallization on 1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol (PAN) using a short cycle or long cycle, X-ray fluorescence after co-crystallization on PAN and spark source mass spectrometry after evaporation on graphite or preconcentration on PAN, and, (2) for the filtered or suspended material: neutron activation using a very short, short or long cycle and X-ray fluorescence. Altogether, on the average some 30 elements could be determined above the detection limit in solution and 15 in suspension. (author)

Extraction of gold and mercury from sea water with bismuth diethyldithiocarbamate prior to neutron activation-. gamma. -spectrometry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yu, J.C.; Lo, J.M.; Wai, C.M. (Idaho Univ. Moscow (USA). Dept. of Chemistry)

1983-11-01

Gold and mercury in sea water can be selectively extracted by bismuth diethyldithiocarbamate into chloroform at pH <= 1. The matrix species and many other trace elements in the system are effectively removed during extraction. When neutron activation-..gamma..-spectrometry is used, the detection limits for gold and mercury are 0.001 and 0.01 ..mu..g l/sup -1/, respectively. The relative precision is 9% for gold and 13% for mercury.

Evaluation of the natural radioactivity using thermoluminescence, gamma spectrometry and neutron activation techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fausto, A.M.; Otsubo, S.M.; Paes, W.S.; Yoshimura, E.M.; Okuno, E.; Hiodo, F.; Marques, L.S.; Alcala, A.L.

1996-01-01

The evaluation of the radiation dose in the living species due to the natural radioactivity is the main objective of this paper. The region that had been monitored was Intrusive Suite of Itu near to Sao Paulo city. Lateral[and depth distributions of natural radioactivity of the soil were determined using the techniques of thermoluminescence gamma spectrometry and neutron[activation. From the concentration in the soil of K-40 and radioactive elements of U and Th series experimentally determined, the dose due to gamma rays in air at 1 m from the soil was evaluated and the results compared with the direct dose measured with the portable rate-meter. (authors). 11 refs., 3 figs

Neutron spectrometry for protection dosimetry at very low levels

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bardell, A.G.; Thomas, D.J.

1996-01-01

Dose limits for exposure of members of the public are significantly lower than those for designated radiation workers. The new ICRP 60 recommendation for critical groups of the general public is an effective dose limit of 1 mSv per year which requires a measurement capability at levels down to about 100 nSv h - 1. Radiation protection dosimetry for neutrons at these levels is problematical, nevertheless, operators of nuclear sites are still required to demonstrate acceptably low radiation levels in areas accessible to the public. In addition to the known poor dose equivalent response of available dosemeters, there is an added problem at low levels of inadequate sensitivity. Personal dosemeters are certainly not sufficiently sensitive, and the sensitivity of area survey instruments is such that they can only be used in integral mode Even then, the statistical uncertainties are likely to be large. One further problem concerns the quantity measured. Survey instruments are designed to measure the operational quantity ambient dose equivalent, H*(10), which always tends to be an overestimate of the present limiting quantity effective dose equivalent. If in any situation exposure is near the limit, an estimate of H*(10) may not be sufficient to prove conclusively that levels are less than the statutory limit, and a direct estimate of effective dose equivalent may need to be made. The only way of estimating effective dose equivalent is via an absolute spectral measurement. From such a spectrum any relevant dosimetric quantity can be estimated via tabulated fluence to dose equivalent conversion factors. (Certain quantities also require information about the angular dependence of the field - see later text). Spectrometry at such low neutron fluence levels is difficult, however, there is one instrument available which can perform the required measurements, and this is a well characterised Bonner sphere (BS) set. (author)

Neutron wave optics studied with ultracold neutrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Steyerl, A.

1984-01-01

The author discusses experiments demonstrating or utilizing the wave properties of neutrons with wavelengths of about 100 nm. In particular the 'UCN gravity diffractometer' and the gravity spectrometer NESSIE (Neutronen-Schwerkraft-Spectrometrie) are illustrated. (Auth.)

Neutron spectrometry with proton recoil proportional counters at the research and measurement reactor Braunschweig - status of the technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Knauf, K.; Wittstock, J.

1987-07-01

This status report is concerned with the facilities set up for neutron spectrometry at the Research and Measurement Reactor Braunschweig, based on proton recoil proportional counters. Cylindrical counters for irradiation by a neutron beam normal to the counter wire and commercial spherical counters are employed. They can be filled with hydrogen or a hydrogeneous gas up to a pressure of 1 MPa depending on their use. The filling method and the electronic pulse processing are described. The pulse analysis system includes a pulse shape discrimination branch in order to separate γ-ray induced pulses. Finally, experimental investigations with spherical counters are discussed regarding the region of proportionality and the influence of the counter voltage on the shape of the response function. (orig./HP) [de

A gaseous scintillation counter filled with He3 for neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Baldin, S.A.; Matveev, V.V.

1962-01-01

The paper describes a gas plant and gaseous scintillation counter, and gives the results of experiments on the recording and spectrometry of neutron beams using a gaseous scintillation counter filled with a mixture of 10% xenene and 90% helium-3 at an overall pressure of 20 ata. Data are given on the design of the gas plant, which makes it possible to operate the counter continuously over long periods of time, as well as providing the required gas mixtures at overall pressures of up to 60 atm and ensuring constant freedom of the gas from contamination. In addition, the paper presents the results of research on the counter's energy resolution and linearity at different energy levels and indicates its efficiency in gamma fields of intensity up to 3 r/h; the possibility of extending the working energy-range of gaseous scintillation counters filled with helium-3 is also considered. (author) [fr

Physical methods for studying minerals and solid materials: X-ray, electron and neutron diffraction; scanning and transmission electron microscopy; X-ray, electron and ion spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Eberhart, J.-P.

1976-01-01

The following topics are discussed: theoretical aspects of radiation-matter interactions; production and measurement of radiations (X rays, electrons, neutrons); applications of radiation interactions to the study of crystalline materials. The following techniques are presented: X-ray and neutron diffraction, electron microscopy, electron diffraction, X-ray fluorescence analysis, electron probe microanalysis, surface analysis by electron emission spectrometry (ESCA and Auger electrons), scanning electron microscopy, secondary ion emission analysis [fr

Neutron spectrometry measurements in iron

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Perlini, G.; Acerbis, S.; Carter, M.

1988-01-01

A compact structure was prepared for use in making measurements of neutron penetration in iron which could serve as reference data and as a check for computer codes. About 30 iron plates were put together giving a useful overall length of 130 cm. At various depths along the central axis of the iron block, measurements were made with liquid scintillator spectrometers and proton recoil proportional counters. The energy band explored was between 14 KeV and 10 MeV. Here we report the original spectra of the impulses and the neutron spectra found by the NE213 code based on the differential method and by unfolding with the SPEC4 code for liquid scintillation counters and proton recoil spectrometers, respectively. 12 figs., 60 tabs., 6 refs

UCN gravity spectrometry using neutron interference filters for fundamental investigations in neutron optics

CERN Document Server

Bondarenko, I V; Cimmino, A; Geltenbort, P; Frank, A I; Hoghoj, P; Klein, A G; Masalovich, S V; Nosov, V G

2000-01-01

A Gravity Spectrometer for ultra-cold neutrons (UCN) using neutron interference filters has been designed and tested. An energy resolution of the order of 6.5 neV was obtained which is good enough for performing a number of neutron-optical experiments proposed in an earlier paper. Experimental tests of the UCN dispersion law are currently in progress.

UCN gravity spectrometry using neutron interference filters for fundamental investigations in neutron optics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bondarenko, I.V.; Balashov, S.N.; Cimmino, A.; Geltenbort, P.; Frank, A.I.; Hoghoj, P.; Klein, A.G.; Masalovich, S.V.; Nosov, V.G.

2000-01-01

A Gravity Spectrometer for ultra-cold neutrons (UCN) using neutron interference filters has been designed and tested. An energy resolution of the order of 6.5 neV was obtained which is good enough for performing a number of neutron-optical experiments proposed in an earlier paper. Experimental tests of the UCN dispersion law are currently in progress

Neutron spectrometry with organic scintillation detector

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Butragueno Casado, J. L.

1972-01-01

This work describes a fast neutron spectrometer using a stilbene crystal as head detector with pulse shape discrimination (P.S.D.) to reject gamma background. Tre experimental procedure involves the P.S.D., the measurements to calibrate the spectrometer and the corrections for several factors, mainly the non-linear response of the stilbene. Results of the measurements with the reaction D 2 (d,n)He 3 , and with an Am-Be neutron source are presented. It is also presented the measurement of the spectrum of the fast reactor CCRAl-1. (Author) 17 refs

Design of a computation tool for neutron spectrometry and dosimetry through evolutionary neural networks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R.; Martinez B, M. R.; Gallego, E.

2009-10-01

The neutron dosimetry is one of the most complicated tasks of radiation protection, due to it is a complex technique and highly dependent of neutron energy. One of the first devices used to perform neutron spectrometry is the system known as spectrometric system of Bonner spheres, that continuous being one of spectrometers most commonly used. This system has disadvantages such as: the components weight, the low resolution of spectrum, long and drawn out procedure for the spectra reconstruction, which require an expert user in system management, the need of use a reconstruction code as BUNKIE, SAND, etc., which are based on an iterative reconstruction algorithm and whose greatest inconvenience is that for the spectrum reconstruction, are needed to provide to system and initial spectrum as close as possible to the desired spectrum get. Consequently, researchers have mentioned the need to developed alternative measurement techniques to improve existing monitoring systems for workers. Among these alternative techniques have been reported several reconstruction procedures based on artificial intelligence techniques such as genetic algorithms, artificial neural networks and hybrid systems of evolutionary artificial neural networks using genetic algorithms. However, the use of these techniques in the nuclear science area is not free of problems, so it has been suggested that more research is conducted in such a way as to solve these disadvantages. Because they are emerging technologies, there are no tools for the results analysis, so in this paper we present first the design of a computation tool that allow to analyze the neutron spectra and equivalent doses, obtained through the hybrid technology of neural networks and genetic algorithms. This tool provides an user graphical environment, friendly, intuitive and easy of operate. The speed of program operation is high, executing the analysis in a few seconds, so it may storage and or print the obtained information for

Pramana – Journal of Physics | Indian Academy of Sciences

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Home; Journals; Pramana – Journal of Physics; Volume 77; Issue 4. Issue front cover thumbnail. Volume 77, Issue 4. October 2011, pages 599-764. pp 599-609 Research Articles. Evaluation of response matrix of a multisphere neutron spectrometer with water moderator · Rahim Khabaz Hashem Miri Hakimabad.

Gamma-ray spectrometry applied to down-hole logging

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dumesnil, P.; Umiastowsky, K.

1983-11-01

Gamma-ray spectrometry permits to improve the accuracy of natural gamma, gamma-gamma and neutron-gamma geophysical measurements. The probe developed at Centre d'Etudes Nucleaires de Saclay allows down-hole gamma-ray spectrometry. Among others, this probe can be applied to the uranium content determination by selective natural gamma method, down-hole determination of the ash content in the coal by gamma-gamma selective method and elemental analysis by neutron-gamma method. For the calibration and an exact interpretation of the measurements it is important to know the gamma-ray and neutron characteristics of the different kinds of rocks considered as probabilistic variables

Development and Analysis of Volume Multi-Sphere Method Model Generation using Electric Field Fitting

Science.gov (United States)

Ingram, G. J.

Electrostatic modeling of spacecraft has wide-reaching applications such as detumbling space debris in the Geosynchronous Earth Orbit regime before docking, servicing and tugging space debris to graveyard orbits, and Lorentz augmented orbits. The viability of electrostatic actuation control applications relies on faster-than-realtime characterization of the electrostatic interaction. The Volume Multi-Sphere Method (VMSM) seeks the optimal placement and radii of a small number of equipotential spheres to accurately model the electrostatic force and torque on a conducting space object. Current VMSM models tuned using force and torque comparisons with commercially available finite element software are subject to the modeled probe size and numerical errors of the software. This work first investigates fitting of VMSM models to Surface-MSM (SMSM) generated electrical field data, removing modeling dependence on probe geometry while significantly increasing performance and speed. A proposed electric field matching cost function is compared to a force and torque cost function, the inclusion of a self-capacitance constraint is explored and 4 degree-of-freedom VMSM models generated using electric field matching are investigated. The resulting E-field based VMSM development framework is illustrated on a box-shaped hub with a single solar panel, and convergence properties of select models are qualitatively analyzed. Despite the complex non-symmetric spacecraft geometry, elegantly simple 2-sphere VMSM solutions provide force and torque fits within a few percent.

High resolution fast neutron spectrometry without time-of-flight

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Evans, A.E.; Brandenberger, J.D.

1978-01-01

Performance tests of a spectrometer tube of the type developed by Cuttler and Shalev show that the measurement of fast neutron spectra with this device can be made with an energy resolution previously obtainable only in large time-of-flight facilities. In preliminary tests, resolutions of 16.4 keV for thermal neutrons and 30.9 keV for 1-MeV neutrons were obtained. A broad-window pulse-shape discrimination (PSD) system is used to remove from pulse-height distributions most of the continua due to 3 He-recoil events, noise, and wall effect. Use of PSD improved the energy resolution to 12.9 keV for thermal neutrons and 29.2 keV for 1-MeV neutrons. The detector is a viable tool for neutron research at nominally equipped accelerator laboratories

Dosimetry of an accident in mixed field (neutrons, photons) using the spectrometry by electronic paramagnetic resonance(EPR); Dosimetrie d'accident en champ mixte (neutrons, photons) utilisant la spectrometrie par resonance paramagnetique electronique (RPE)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Herve, M.L

2006-03-15

In a radiological accident, the assessment of the dose received by the victim is relevant information for the therapeutic strategy. Two complementary dosimetric techniques based on physical means are used in routine practice in the laboratory: EPR spectroscopy performed on materials removed from the victim or gathered from the vicinity of the victim and Monte Carlo calculations. EPR dosimetry, has been used successfully several times in cases of photon or electron overexposures. Accidental exposure may also occur with a neutron component. The aim of this work is to investigate the potentiality of EPR dosimetry for mixed photon and neutron field exposure with different organic materials (ascorbic acid, sorbitol, glucose, galactose, fructose, mannose, lactose and sucrose). The influence of irradiation parameters (dose, dose rate, photon energy) and of environmental parameters (temperature of heating, light exposure) on the EPR signal amplitude was studied. To assess the neutron sensitivity, the materials were exposed to a mixed radiation field of experimental reactors with different neutron to photon ratios. The relative neutron sensitivity was found to range from 10% to 43% according to the materials. Prior knowledge of the ratio between the dose in samples measured by EPR spectrometry and organ or whole body dose obtained by calculations previously performed for these different configurations, makes it possible to give a first estimation of the dose received by the victim in a short delay. The second aim of this work is to provide data relevant for a quick assessment of the dose distribution in case of accidental overexposure based on EPR measurements performed on one or several points of the body. The study consists in determining by calculation the relation between the dose to the organs and whole body and the dose to specific points of the body, like teeth, bones or samples located in the pockets of victim clothes, for different external exposures corresponding

Neutron spectrometry with a monolithic silicon telescope.

Science.gov (United States)

Agosteo, S; D'Angelo, G; Fazzi, A; Para, A Foglio; Pola, A; Zotto, P

2007-01-01

A neutron spectrometer was set-up by coupling a polyethylene converter with a monolithic silicon telescope, consisting of a DeltaE and an E stage-detector (about 2 and 500 microm thick, respectively). The detection system was irradiated with monoenergetic neutrons at INFN-Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro (Legnaro, Italy). The maximum detectable energy, imposed by the thickness of the E stage, is about 8 MeV for the present detector. The scatter plots of the energy deposited in the two stages were acquired using two independent electronic chains. The distributions of the recoil-protons are well-discriminated from those due to secondary electrons for energies above 0.350 MeV. The experimental spectra of the recoil-protons were compared with the results of Monte Carlo simulations using the FLUKA code. An analytical model that takes into account the geometrical structure of the silicon telescope was developed, validated and implemented in an unfolding code. The capability of reproducing continuous neutron spectra was investigated by irradiating the detector with neutrons from a thick beryllium target bombarded with protons. The measured spectra were compared with data taken from the literature. Satisfactory agreement was found.

Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry with neural networks and Bonner spheres: a study to reduce the spheres number

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Espinoza G, J. G.; Martinez B, M. R.; Leon P, A. A.; Hernandez P, C. F.; Castaneda M, V. H.; Solis S, L. O.; Castaneda M, R.; Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R.; Mendez, R.; Gallego, E.; De Sousa L, M. A.

2016-10-01

For neutron spectrometry and neutron dosimetry, the Bonner spheres spectrometric system has been the most widely used system, however, the number, size and weight of the spheres composing the system, as well as the need to use a reconstruction code and the long periods of time used to carry out the measurements are some of the disadvantages of this system. For the reconstruction of the spectra, different techniques such as artificial neural networks of reverse propagation have been used. The objective of this work was to reduce the number of Bonner spheres and to use counting speeds in a reverse propagation neural network, optimized by means of the robust design methodology, to reconstruct the neutron spectra. For the design of the neural network we used the neutron spectra of the IAEA and the response matrix of the Bonner spheres with "6LiI(Eu) detector. The performance of the network was compared; using 7 Bonner spheres against other cases where only 2 and one sphere are used. The network topologies were trained 36 times for each case keeping constant the objective error (1E(-3)), the training algorithm was trains cg and the robust design methodology to determine the best network architectures. With these, the best and worst results were compared. The results obtained using 7 spheres were similar to those with the 5-in sphere, however is still in an information analysis stage. (Author)

A comparative study of 232Th and 238U activity estimation in soil samples by gamma spectrometry and neutron activation analysis technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anilkumar, Rekha; Anilkumar, S.; Narayani, K.; Babu, D.A.R.; Sharma, D.N.

2012-01-01

Neutron activation analysis (NAA) is a well-established analytical technique. It has many advantages as compared to the other commonly used techniques. NAA can be performed in a variety of ways depending on the element, its activity level in the sample, interference from the sample matrix and other elements, etc. This technique is used to get high analytical sensitivity and low detection limits (ppm to ppb). The high sensitivity is due to the irradiation at high neutron flux available from the research reactors and the activity measurement is done using high resolution HPGe detectors. In this paper, the activity estimation of soil samples using neutron activation and direct gamma spectrometry methods are compared. Even though the weights of samples considered and samples preparation methods are different for these two methods, the estimated activity values are comparable. (author)

International comparison of Cd content in a quality control material of Navajuelas (Tagelus dombeii) determined by anodic stripping voltammetry, atomic absorption spectrometry and neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Queirolo, F.; Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH; Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz; Ostapczuk, P.; Valenta, P.; Stegen, S.; Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz; Marin, C.; Vinagre, F.; Sanchez, A.

1991-01-01

The determination of Cd was performed by neutron activation analysis (NAA), atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) with flame or in the electrothermal mode and anodic stripping voltammetry in the differential pulse mode (DPASV) and the square wave mode (SWASV). (orig./EF)

The Determination of Thorium Contents in Urine With Neutron Activation Analysis and Alpha Spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mukh-Syaifudin

2007-01-01

Internal contamination by a radionuclide that entered into body through inhalation is most conveniently determined by using urine as sample. The aim of this research was developing a fast and simple method to determine thorium content in urine. The method was based on comparison of the activities between the sample added with and without standard thorium. Urine sample was divided into two parts, one of which was added with Th-232 standard, and then both were simultaneously proceed which was consist of decomposition of organic materials, precipitation of thorium by adding ammonium hydroxide, wash with aquadest, and then dissolution in nitric acid. The solution was then activated for 15 minutes with neutron flux of 10 12 ncm -2 second -1 and the activated product was co-precipitated two times with lanthanum carrier and sodium chloride by addition of ammonium hydroxide. Finally, the precipitate was dissolved in nitric acid and the gamma emission of Th-233 was analyzed with gamma spectrometry. The results of analysis showed that the concentration of four urine samples analyzed was below detection limit (BDL); 200.40; 273.88 and 22.03 pg/l, respectively. With the simple procedure, neutron activation analysis can be used in the determining the actinide contents in several types of biological sample. (author)

Neutron spectrometry with the NE-213 organic scintillator detector

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silva, A.A. da.

1980-12-01

A neutron spectrometer with the NE-213 organic scintillator detector (5,08cm x 5,08cm) was mounted, tested, and calibrated at the Argonaut Reactor Laboratory of the Instituto de Engenharia Nuclear, to measure and study spectra of available fast neutron sources. The time zero-crossover technique was employed to discriminate the pulse of neutrons and gammas. The neutron spectrum from a 241 Am-Be source was determined experimentally in the range 1,0 MeV to 12,0 MeV and good agreement with other researchers was obtained. (Author) [pt

Determination of Th and U by neutron activation for gamma spectrometry calibration in situ

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nava M, F.; Rios M, C.; Mireles G, F.; Saucedo A, S.; Davila R, I.; Pinedo, J. L.; Landsberger, S.

2012-10-01

Using the analysis by neutron activation to determine the profile of the thorium and uranium concentration calibration factors were obtained for their use in the gamma spectrometry in situ. Three sites were selected (San Ramon, Villa de Cos y la Zacatecana) and the analysis by activation was development in the Laboratory of Nuclear Engineering Teaching of the Texas University in Austin with the nuclear reactor Ut-TRIGA. Starting from the gamma spectra in situ, the areas of normalized photo-pick of the radioisotopes were: 208 Tl and 228 Ac for the thorium series and 214 Pb and 214 Bi for the uranium series. The averages of the factors found in units of (cpm/Bq/Kg) are of 105.63±8.32 and 75.87±4.61 for the thorium and uranium, respectively. (Author)

Comparison of laser fluorimetry, high resolution gamma-ray spectrometry and neutron activation analysis techniques for determination of uranium content in soil samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ghods, A.; Asgharizadeh, F.; Salimi, B.; Abbasi, A.

2004-01-01

Much more concern is given nowadays for exposure of the world population to natural radiation especially to uranium since 57% of that exposure is due to radon-222, which is a member of uranium decay series. Most of the methods used for uranium determination is low concentration require either tedious separation and preconcentration or the accessibility to special instrumentation for detection of uranium at this low level. this study compares three techniques and methods for uranium analysis among different soil sample with variable uranium contents. Two of these techniques, neutron activation analysis and high resolution gamma-ray spectrometry , are non-destructive while the other, laser fluorimetry is done via chemical extraction of uranium. Analysis of standard materials is done also to control the quality and accuracy of the work. In spite of having quite variable ranges of detection limit, results obtained by high resolution gamma-ray spectrometry based on the assumption of having secular equilibrium between uranium and its daughters, which causes deviation whenever this condition was missed. For samples with reasonable uranium content, neutron activation analysis would be a rapid and reliable technique, while for low uranium content laser fluorimetry would be the most appropriate and accurate technique

Application of neutron activation techniques and x-ray energy dispersion spectrometry, in analysis of metallic traces adsorbed by chelex-100 resin

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fernandes, Jair C.; Amaral, Angela M.; Magalhaes, Jesus C.; Pereira, Jose S.J.; Silva, Juliana B. da; Auler, Lucia M.L.A.

2000-01-01

In this work, the authors have investigated optimal conditions of adsorption for several ion metallic groups (cations of heavy metals and transition metals, oxyanions metallics and metalloids and cations of rare earths), as traces (ppb), withdrawn and in mixture of groups, by chelex-100 resin. The experiments have been developed by bath techniques in ammonium acetate tamponade solution 40 mM pH 5,52 content 0,5 g of chelex-100 resin. After magnetic agitation for two hours, resins were dried and submitted to X-ray energy dispersion spectrometry, x-ray fluorescence spectrometry and neutron activation analysis. The results have demonstrated that chelex-100 resin adsorb quantitatively transition element groups and rare earth groups in two cases (withdrawn and simultaneously adsorption)

Comparative studies for determining U-235/U-238 relation in solutions of natural and depleted uranium using gamma spectrometry and neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cassorla F, V.; Valle M, L.; Pena V, L.

1988-01-01

Two experimental methods were developed for determining U-235/U-238 ratio in uranium solutions. The isotopic was measured by high resolution ratio gamma-ray spectrometry (G.S.) and neutron activation analysis (N.A.A.). The precision obtained was similar for both methods, but better sensitivity was obtained by N.A.A. The accuracy in both cases was stablished by comparison with samples previously analyzed by mass spectrometry, the results were satisfactory for both techniques. Studies involving the influence of the nitric acid concentration on the isotopic ratio measurement, also were done. In addition, computer programs for faster data reduction were developped, in the case of N.A.A. (author)

Elemental characterization of herbal medicines used in Ghana by instrumental neutron activation analysis and atomic absorption spectrometry and multivariate statistical analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ayivor, J.E.; Nyarko, B.J.B.; Dampare, S.B.; Okine, L.K.

2010-01-01

k 0 instrumental neutron activation analysis and atomic absorption spectrometry were applied to determine multi elements in thirteen Ghanaian herbal medicines used for the management of various diseases. Concentrations of AI, Cu, Mg, Mn and Na were determined. As, Br, K, CI, and Na were determined by short and medium irradiations at a thermal neutron flux of 5x10ncm -2 s -1 . Fe, Cr, Pb, Co, Ni, Sn, Ca, Ba, Li and Sb were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry. Ba, Cu, Li and V were present at trace levels whereas AI, CI, Na, Ca were present at major levels. K, Br, Mg, Mn, Co, Ni, Fe and Sb were also present at minor levels. The precision and accuracy of the method using real samples and standard reference materials were within ±10% of the reported value. Multivariate analytical techniques, such as cluster analysis and principal component analysis (PCA)/factor analysis (FA), have been applied to evaluate the chemical variations in the herbal medicine dataset. All the 13 samples may be grouped into two statistically significant clusters, reflecting the different chemical compositions. The concentrations of elements were within the recommended daily allowances or maximum permissible levels posing no adverse effects on human health.

Non destructive testing and neutron radiography in 1994

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bayon, G.

1994-01-01

Neutron radiography has been considered for a long time as a promising technique; however it plays a minor part in the world of non destructive testing today, due to the lack of suitable neutron sources and lack of new industrial applications. This paper reviews the present status of neutron sources, neutron radiography activities, especially in France (such as the neutron-capture-issued secondary radiation spectrometry), in nuclear, aerospace, aeronautical and metallurgical sectors, and the last applications of neutron dynamic imaging. 9 refs

Automated gamma spectrometry and data analysis on radiometric neutron dosimeters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Matsumoto, W.Y.

1983-01-01

An automated gamma-ray spectrometry system was designed and implemented by the Westinghouse Hanford Company at the Hanford Engineering Development Laboratory (HEDL) to analyze radiometric neutron dosimeters. Unattended, automatic, 24 hour/day, 7 day/week operation with online data analysis and mainframe-computer compatible magnetic tape output are system features. The system was used to analyze most of the 4000-plus radiometric monitors (RM's) from extensive reactor characterization tests during startup and initial operation of th Fast Flux Test Facility (FFTF). The FFTF, operated by HEDL for the Department of Energy, incorporates a 400 MW(th) sodium-cooled fast reactor. Aumomated system hardware consists of a high purity germanium detector, a computerized multichannel analyzer data acquisition system (Nuclear Data, Inc. Model 6620) with two dual 2.5 Mbyte magnetic disk drives plus two 10.5 inch reel magnetic tape units for mass storage of programs/data and an automated Sample Changer-Positioner (ASC-P) run with a programmable controller. The ASC-P has a 200 sample capacity and 12 calibrated counting (analysis) positions ranging from 6 inches (15 cm) to more than 20 feet (6.1 m) from the detector. The system software was programmed in Fortran at HEDL, except for the Nuclear Data, Inc. Peak Search and Analysis Program and Disk Operating System (MIDAS+)

Neutron spectrometry using LNL bonner spheres and FLUKA

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sarchiapone, L.; Zafiropoulos, D. [INFN, Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro (Italy)

2013-07-18

The characterization of neutron fields has been made with a system based on a scintillation detector and multiple moderating spheres. The system, together with the unfolding procedure, have been tested in quasi-monochromatic neutron energy fields and in complex, mixed, cyclotron based environments. FLUKA simulations have been used to produce response functions and reference energy spectra.

Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry by means of evolutive neural networks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J.M.; Martinez B, M.R.; Vega C, H.R.

2008-01-01

The artificial neural networks and the genetic algorithms are two relatively new areas of research, which have been subject to a growing interest during the last years. Both models are inspired by the nature, however, the neural networks are interested in the learning of a single individual, which is defined as fenotypic learning, while the evolutionary algorithms are interested in the adaptation of a population to a changing environment, that which is defined as genotypic learning. Recently, the use of the technology of neural networks has been applied with success in the area of the nuclear sciences, mainly in the areas of neutron spectrometry and dosimetry. The structure (network topology), as well as the learning parameters of a neural network, are factors that contribute in a significant way with the acting of the same one, however, it has been observed that the investigators in this area, carry out the selection of the network parameters through the essay and error technique, that which produces neural networks of poor performance and low generalization capacity. From the revised sources, it has been observed that the use of the evolutionary algorithms, seen as search techniques, it has allowed him to be possible to evolve and to optimize different properties of the neural networks, just as the initialization of the synaptic weights, the network architecture or the training algorithms without the human intervention. The objective of the present work is focused in analyzing the intersection of the neural networks and the evolutionary algorithms, analyzing like it is that the same ones can be used to help in the design processes and training of a neural network, this is, in the good selection of the structural parameters and of network learning, improving its generalization capacity, in such way that the same one is able to reconstruct in an efficient way neutron spectra and to calculate equivalent doses starting from the counting rates of a Bonner sphere

Measurements of H*(10) in reference neutron fields using Bonner sphere spectrometry and LET spectrometry

CERN Document Server

Golnik, N; Králik, M

2002-01-01

A Bonner sphere spectrometer and the REM-2 recombination chamber were used for inter-comparison measurements of the neutron component of ambient dose equivalent, H sub n *(10) in reference neutron fields. The sup 2 sup 4 sup 1 Am-Be and sup 2 sup 5 sup 2 Cf neutron sources were exposed either free-in-air or placed in iron or paraffin filters. The REM-2 recombination chamber was used as a LET spectrometer. The agreement of H sub n *(10) values measured with both the methods was within experimental uncertainties of few percent. The determined neutron spectra were used for calculations of the REM-2 chamber response to H*(10).

A comparative study of 232Th and 238U activity estimation in soil samples by gamma spectrometry and Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rekha, A.K.; Anilkumar, S.; Narayani, K.; Babu, D.A.R.

2012-01-01

Radioactivity in the environment is mainly due to the naturally occurring radionuclides like uranium, thorium with their daughter products and potassium. Even though Gamma spectrometry is the most commonly used non destructive method for the quantification of these naturally occurring radionuclides, Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA), a well established analytical technique, can also be used. But the NAA technique is a time consuming process and needs proper standards, proper sample preparation etc. In this paper, the 232 Th and 238 U activity estimated using gamma ray spectrometry and NAA technique are compared. In the case of direct gamma spectrometry method, the samples were analysed after sealing in a 250 ml container. Whereas for the NAA, about 300 mg of each sample, after irradiation were subjected to gamma spectrometry. The 238 U and 232 Th activities (in Bq/kg) in samples were estimated after the proper efficiency correction and were compared. The estimated activities by these two methods are in good agreement. The variation in 238 U and 232 Th activity values are within ± 15% which are acceptable for environmental samples

Determination of boron and lithium in diverse biological matrices using neutron activation-mass spectrometry (NA-MS)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Iyengar, G.V.; Downing, R.G.; Clarke, W.B.

1990-01-01

Essential features of the neutron activation-mass Spectrometry (NA-MS) technique are described. Applicability of this technique for the simultaneous determination of boron and lithium is demonstrated for a diverse group of biomaterials. NA-MS is a nondestructive analytical technique, and dynamic in nature since its coverage extends to a broad range of concentration levels. Contamination after the irradiation step, extraneous by natural lithium or boron is inconsequential, since only the activation products are the analyted assayed. Coupling the nuclear activation phenomenon which generates 4 He and 3 He (from 10 B and 6 Li, respectively), with the high precision potential of mass spectrometry forms the bases of this technique. Under ideal conditions the detection limit is extendable to pg g -1 concentration ranges and therefore, it is extremely well suited to investigate the natural concentration levels of boron and lithium in biomaterials. The potential of this method for the determination of lithium in biomedical trace element research is of special significance since determination of sub-ppb levels of lithium by other analytical techniques faces serious analytical difficulties mainly due to contamination control and in some cases to insufficiently low detection limits. (orig.)

Correcting the effects of the matrix using capture gamma-ray spectrometry: Application to measurement by Active Neutron Interrogation; Correction des effets de matrice par spectrometrie des rayonnements gamma de capture: Application a la mesure par Interrogation Neutronique Active (I.N.A.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Baudry, G.

2003-11-15

In the field of the measurement of low masses of fissile material ({sup 235}U, {sup 239}Pu, {sup 241}Pu) in radioactive waste drums, the Active Neutron Interrogation is a non-destructive method achieving good results. It does however remain reliant upon uncertainties related to the matrix effects on interrogation and fission neutrons. The aim of this thesis is to develop a correction method able to take into account these matrix effects by quantifying the amount of absorbent materials (chlorine and hydrogen) in a 118- liter homogeneous matrix. The main idea is to use the gamma-ray spectrometry of gamma emitted by neutron captures to identify and quantify the composition of the matrix. An indicator from its chlorine content is then deduced in order to choose the calibration coefficient which best represents the real composition of the matrix. This document firstly presents the needs of control and characterization of radioactive objects, and the means used in the field of nuclear measurement. Emphases is put in particular on the Active Neutron Interrogation method. The matrices of interest are those made of light technological waste (density {<=} 0,4 g/cm{sup 3}) containing hydrogenated and chlorinated materials. The advantages of gamma-rays emitted by neutron captures for the determination of a chlorine content indicator of the matrices and the principles of the correction method are then explained. Measurements have been firstly realized with an existing Neutron Interrogation device (PROMETHEE 6). Such measurements have proven its inadequacy: no signal from the matrix hydrogen was detected, due to an intense signal from the polyethylene contained in some cell elements. Moreover, the matrix chlorine content appeared difficult to be measured. A new and specific device, named REGAIN and dedicated to active gamma-rays spectrometry, was defined with the Monte-Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) code. The experiments conducted with this new device made it possible to detect the

Pseudo-random neutron time-of-flight spectroscopy using a Van de Graaff accelerator as neutron source

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Duquesne, Henry; Schmitt, Andre; Poussot, Rene; Pelicier, Henri.

1976-05-01

The classical experiments of neutron time-of-flight spectrometry on bulk multiplying media are using recurrent neutron bursts from a linear accelerator. The adaptation of the ion beam issued from the Cadarache Van de Graaff accelerator is described with the test experiments which were effected. Both methods are compared with respect to the accuracy obtained, the energy resolution and the time consumed [fr

Dosimetry of an accident in mixed field (neutrons, photons) using the spectrometry by electronic paramagnetic resonance(EPR)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Herve, M.L.

2006-03-01

In a radiological accident, the assessment of the dose received by the victim is relevant information for the therapeutic strategy. Two complementary dosimetric techniques based on physical means are used in routine practice in the laboratory: EPR spectroscopy performed on materials removed from the victim or gathered from the vicinity of the victim and Monte Carlo calculations. EPR dosimetry, has been used successfully several times in cases of photon or electron overexposures. Accidental exposure may also occur with a neutron component. The aim of this work is to investigate the potentiality of EPR dosimetry for mixed photon and neutron field exposure with different organic materials (ascorbic acid, sorbitol, glucose, galactose, fructose, mannose, lactose and sucrose). The influence of irradiation parameters (dose, dose rate, photon energy) and of environmental parameters (temperature of heating, light exposure) on the EPR signal amplitude was studied. To assess the neutron sensitivity, the materials were exposed to a mixed radiation field of experimental reactors with different neutron to photon ratios. The relative neutron sensitivity was found to range from 10% to 43% according to the materials. Prior knowledge of the ratio between the dose in samples measured by EPR spectrometry and organ or whole body dose obtained by calculations previously performed for these different configurations, makes it possible to give a first estimation of the dose received by the victim in a short delay. The second aim of this work is to provide data relevant for a quick assessment of the dose distribution in case of accidental overexposure based on EPR measurements performed on one or several points of the body. The study consists in determining by calculation the relation between the dose to the organs and whole body and the dose to specific points of the body, like teeth, bones or samples located in the pockets of victim clothes, for different external exposures corresponding

Evaluation of metal and radionuclide data from neutron activation and acid-digestion-based spectrometry analyses of background soils: Significance in environmental restoration

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lee, S.Y.; Watkins, D.R.; Jackson, B.L.; Schmoyer, R.L. [Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States); Lietzke, D.A.; Burgoa, B.B.; Branson, J.T.; Ammons, J.T. [Univ. of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN (United States)

1995-12-31

A faster, more cost-effective, and higher-quality data acquisition procedure for natural background-level metals and radionuclides in soils is needed for remedial investigations of contaminated sites. In this project, a total of 120 soil samples were collected from uncontaminated areas on and near the Oak Ridge Reservation. The samples were taken at three different depths and from three different geologic groups to establish background concentrations of metals and radionuclides. The objective of this presentation is to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of neutron activation analysis (NAA) compared with those of acid-digestion-based spectrometry (ADS) methods; the advantages and disadvantages were evaluated from Al, Sb, As, Cr, Co, Fe, Mg, Mn, Hg, K, Ag, {sup 232}Th, {sup 235}U, {sup 238}U, V, and Zn data. The ADS methods used for this project were inductively coupled plasma (ICP), ICP-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and alpha spectrometry. The scatter plots showed that the NAA results for As, Co, Fe, Mn, {sup 232}Th, and {sup 238}U are reasonably correlated with the results from the other analytical methods. Compared to NAA, however, the ADS methods underestimated Al, Cr, Mg, K, V, and Zn. The skew distributions were caused by incomplete dissolution of the analytes during acid digestion of the soil samples. Because of the high detection limits of the spectrometric methods, the NAA results and the ADS results for some elements, including Sb, Hg, and Ag, did not show a definite relationship. The NAA results were highly correlated with the alpha spectrometry results for {sup 232}Th and {sup 238}U but poorly correlated for {sup 235}U, probably because of a larger counting error associated with the lower activity of the isotope. The NAA methods, including the delayed neutron counting method, were far superior techniques for quantifying background levels of radionuclides ({sup 232}Th, {sup 235}U, and {sup 238}U) and metals (Al, Cr, Mg, K, V, and Zn) in soils.

Evaluation of metal and radionuclide data from neutron activation and acid-digestion-based spectrometry analyses of background soils: Significance in environmental restoration

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lee, S.Y.; Watkins, D.R.; Jackson, B.L.; Schmoyer, R.L.; Lietzke, D.A.; Burgoa, B.B.; Branson, J.T.; Ammons, J.T.

1995-01-01

A faster, more cost-effective, and higher-quality data acquisition procedure for natural background-level metals and radionuclides in soils is needed for remedial investigations of contaminated sites. In this project, a total of 120 soil samples were collected from uncontaminated areas on and near the Oak Ridge Reservation. The samples were taken at three different depths and from three different geologic groups to establish background concentrations of metals and radionuclides. The objective of this presentation is to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of neutron activation analysis (NAA) compared with those of acid-digestion-based spectrometry (ADS) methods; the advantages and disadvantages were evaluated from Al, Sb, As, Cr, Co, Fe, Mg, Mn, Hg, K, Ag, 232 Th, 235 U, 238 U, V, and Zn data. The ADS methods used for this project were inductively coupled plasma (ICP), ICP-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and alpha spectrometry. The scatter plots showed that the NAA results for As, Co, Fe, Mn, 232 Th, and 238 U are reasonably correlated with the results from the other analytical methods. Compared to NAA, however, the ADS methods underestimated Al, Cr, Mg, K, V, and Zn. The skew distributions were caused by incomplete dissolution of the analytes during acid digestion of the soil samples. Because of the high detection limits of the spectrometric methods, the NAA results and the ADS results for some elements, including Sb, Hg, and Ag, did not show a definite relationship. The NAA results were highly correlated with the alpha spectrometry results for 232 Th and 238 U but poorly correlated for 235 U, probably because of a larger counting error associated with the lower activity of the isotope. The NAA methods, including the delayed neutron counting method, were far superior techniques for quantifying background levels of radionuclides ( 232 Th, 235 U, and 238 U) and metals (Al, Cr, Mg, K, V, and Zn) in soils

Study of radionuclide and element characterization of Angola marine sediment using low background gamma spectrometry and instrumental neutron activation analysis techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Teixeira, M.C.P.; Vuong Huu Tan; Truong Y; Ho Manh Dung; Le Nhu Sieu; Cao Dong Vu; Nguyen Thanh Binh

2007-01-01

The concentrations of radionuclides and chemical elements in Angola marine sediment samples were determined by using low background gamma (LBG) spectrometry and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). The combination of radionuclide and elemental concentration values yielded synergy in the validation of analytical data and identification of sediment sources modeled by multivariate factor analysis. Varimax rotation factor analysis based on the elemental concentrations revealed five sources contributed to the sediment composition, i.e. crustal, sea-salt, industrial, coal-related and Se-related sources. (author)

Superheated emulsions in neutron spectrometry by varying ambient pressure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Das, Mala; Sawamura, Teruko

2005-01-01

The principle of present work lies on the dependence of the threshold neutron energy on the dimensionless quantity ''degree of metastability (ss)'' of superheated liquids. The response of the superheated emulsions consists of the drops of superheated liquid (C 2 Cl 2 F 4 , b.p. 3.77 deg. C) has been measured at different 'ss' by varying ambient pressure at different temperatures, in the presence of neutrons generated in Pb by a (γ,n) reaction from 45 MeV electron LINAC of Hokkaido University. To unfold the neutron energy spectrum, a relationship has been developed between the 'ss' of superheated liquids and the threshold neutron energy. The spectrum at the detector position has been calculated by the MCNP code and a comparison has been made with the experimental spectrum. The utilisation of 'ss' is more flexible as this relation can be applied to both positive and negative ambient pressures as well as at different ambient temperatures

Mass measurement of cooled neutron-deficient bismuth projectile fragments with time-resolved Schottky mass spectrometry at the FRS-ESR facility

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Litvinov, Yu.A.; Geissel, H. [Giessen Univ. (Germany); Radon, T. [Gesellschaft fuer Schwerionenforschung mbH, Darmstadt (DE)] [and others

2005-06-01

Masses of 582 neutron-deficient nuclides (30{<=}Z{<=}85) were measured with time-resolved Schottky mass spectrometry at the FRS-ESR facility at GSI, 117 were used for calibration. The masses of 71 nuclides were obtained for the first time. A typical mass accuracy of 30 {mu}u was achieved. These data have entered the latest atomic mass evaluation. The mass determination of about 140 additional nuclides was possible via known energies (Q-values) of {alpha}-, {beta}-, or proton decays. The obtained results are compared with the results of other measurements. (orig.)

Intercomparison of radiation protection devices in a high-energy stray neutron field, Part II: Bonner sphere spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wiegel, B.; Agosteo, S.; Bedogni, R.; Caresana, M.; Esposito, A.; Fehrenbacher, G.; Ferrarini, M.; Hohmann, E.; Hranitzky, C.; Kasper, A.; Khurana, S.; Mares, V.; Reginatto, M.; Rollet, S.; Ruehm, W.; Schardt, D.; Silari, M.; Simmer, G.; Weitzenegger, E.

2009-01-01

The European Commission has funded within its 6th Framework Programme a three-year project (2005-2007) called CONRAD, COordinated Network for RAdiation Dosimetry. A major task of the CONRAD Work Package 'complex mixed radiation fields at workplaces' was to organise a benchmark exercise in a workplace field at a high-energy particle accelerator where neutrons are the dominant radiation component. The CONRAD benchmark exercise took place at the Gesellschaft fuer Schwerionenforschung mbH (GSI) in Darmstadt, Germany in July 2006. In this paper, the results of the spectrometry using four extended -range Bonner sphere spectrometers of four different institutes are reported. Outside Cave A the neutron spectra were measured with three spectrometers at six selected positions and ambient dose equivalent values were derived for use in the intercomparison with other area monitors and dosemeters. At a common position all three spectrometers were used to allow a direct comparison of their results which acts as an internal quality assurance. The comparison of the neutron spectra measured by the different groups shows very good agreement. A detailed analysis presents some differences between the shapes of the spectra and possible sources of these differences are discussed. However, the ability of Bonner sphere spectrometers to provide reliable integral quantities like fluence and ambient dose equivalent is well demonstrated in this exercise. The fluence and dose results derived by the three groups agree very well within the given uncertainties, not only with respect to the total energy region present in this environment but also for selected energy regions which contribute in certain strength to the total values. In addition to the positions outside Cave A one spectrometer was used to measure the neutron spectrum at one position in the entry maze of Cave A. In this case a comparison was possible to earlier measurements.

Determination of Heavy Metals in Meat, Intestine, Liver, Eggs, and Chicken Using Neutron Activation Analysis and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Surtipanti, S; Suwirma, S; Yumiarti, S; Mellawati, Yune [National Atomic Energy Agency, Jakarta (Indonesia), Center for the Application of Isotopes Radiation

1995-01-01

The elements As, Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, Hg, Ni, Pb, Sb, se and Zn in meat, intestine, and liver of cow and goat, as well as in broiler, local breed chicken and eggs have been determined using Neutron Activation Analysis and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Mercury was determined after being separated radiochemically. The results showed that concentration of the essential elements studied i.e. Cr, Cu, Fe, Zn, Co, and Ni were higher in liver and intestine than in the meat, but still in the normal range, while toxic elements As, Cd, and Pb were undetectable in all samples. (author). 8 refs., 6 tabs.

Determination of Heavy Metals in Meat, Intestine, Liver, Eggs, and Chicken Using Neutron Activation Analysis and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Surtipanti, S.; Suwirma, S.; Yumiarti, S.; Mellawati, Yune

1995-01-01

The elements As, Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, Hg, Ni, Pb, Sb, se and Zn in meat, intestine, and liver of cow and goat, as well as in broiler, local breed chicken and eggs have been determined using Neutron Activation Analysis and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Mercury was determined after being separated radiochemically. The results showed that concentration of the essential elements studied i.e. Cr, Cu, Fe, Zn, Co, and Ni were higher in liver and intestine than in the meat, but still in the normal range, while toxic elements As, Cd, and Pb were undetectable in all samples. (author). 8 refs., 6 tabs

Neutron spectrometer for improved SNM search.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vance, Andrew L.; Aigeldinger, Georg

2007-03-01

With the exception of large laboratory devices with very low sensitivities, a neutron spectrometer have not been built for fission neutrons such as those emitted by special nuclear materials (SNM). The goal of this work was to use a technique known as Capture Gated Neutron Spectrometry to develop a solid-state device with this functionality. This required modifications to trans-stilbene, a known solid-state scintillator. To provide a neutron capture signal we added lithium to this material. This unique triggering signal allowed identification of neutrons that lose all of their energy in the detector, eliminating uncertainties that arise due to partial energy depositions. We successfully implemented a capture gated neutron spectrometer and were able to distinguish an SNM like fission spectrum from a spectrum stemming from a benign neutron source.

Fast neutron spectrometry based on proton detection in CR-39 detector

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dajko, G.; Somogyi, G.

1986-01-01

The authors have developed a home-made proton-sensitive CR-39 track detector called MA-ND/p. Using this and the n-p scattering process the performance of a fast neutron spectrometer has been studied by applying two different methods. These are based on track density determinations by using varying radiator thicknesses at constant etching time and by using varying etching times at fixed radiator thickness, respectively. For both methods studied a computer programme is made to calculate the theoretically expected neutron sensitivity as a function of neutron energy. For both methods the neutron sensitivities, expressed in terms of observable etched proton tracks per neutron, are determined experimentally for 3.3 and 14.7 MeV neutron energies. The theoretical and experimental data obtained are compared.

Fast neutron spectrometry based on proton detection in CR-39 detector

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dajko, G.; Somogyi, G.

1986-01-01

The authors have developed a home-made proton-sensitive CR-39 track detector called MA-ND/p. Using this and the n-p scattering process the performance of a fast neutron spectrometer has been studied by applying two different methods. These are based on track density determinations by using varying radiator thicknesses at constant etching time and by using varying etching times at fixed radiator thickness, respectively. For both methods studied a computer programme is made to calculate the theoretically expected neutron sensitivity as a function of neutron energy. For both methods the neutron sensitivities, expressed in terms of observable etched proton tracks per neutron, are determined experimentally for 3.3 and 14.7 MeV neutron energies. The theoretical and experimental data obtained are compared. (author)

Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry in the environment and at workplaces

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alevra, A.V.; Klein, H.; Knauf, K.; Wittstock, J.; Wolber, G.

1998-01-01

Results obtained in diverse environments (including workplaces) using both spectrometric and dosimetric instrumentation were compared. The following topics are included: PTB Bonner sphere spectrometers; natural cosmic ray-induced neutron background; neutron fields at the Dukovany nuclear power plant (Czech Republic); neutron fields at the isochronous cyclotron of the German Cancer Research center in Heidelberg; and accuracy of the integral results obtained with Bonner spheres. (P.A.)

Thorium: one of the analytical techniques in neutronic activation and alpha spectrometry of the CDTN (Brazilian Nuclear Technology Development Center) in the last three decades

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Menezes, M.A.B.C.; Sabino, C.V.S.

1994-01-01

For long years, the CDTN (Brazilian Nuclear Technology Development Center ) has applied several analytical techniques in the thorium determination. This work is about the evolution of the neutronic activation in the thorium 232 analysis from the 1960's to now. The importance of the analysis request and alpha spectrometry for the thorium 228 and thorium 232 determination is emphasized. (J.A.M.M.)

DETERMINATION OF LIMIT DETECTION OF THE ELEMENTS N, P, K, Si, Al, Fe, Cu, Cd, WITH FAST NEUTRON ACTIVATION USING NEUTRON GENERATOR

OpenAIRE

Sunardi, Sunardi; Muryono, Muryono

2010-01-01

Determination of limit detection of the elements N, P, K, Si, Al, Fe, Cu, Cd, with fast neutron activation using neutron generator has been done.  Samples prepared from SRM 2704, N, P, K elements from MERCK, Cu, Cd, Al from activation foil made in San Carlos, weighted and packed for certain weight then iradiated during 30 minutes with 14 MeV fast neutron using the neutron generator and then counted with gamma spectrometry (accuspec).  At this research condition of neutron generator was set at...

Improved Bonner sphere neutron spectrometry measurements for the nuclear industry

Science.gov (United States)

Roberts, N. J.; Thomas, D. J.; Visser, T. P. P.

2017-11-01

A novel, two-stage approach has been developed for producing the a priori spectrum for Bonner sphere unfolding in a case where neutrons are produced by spontaneous fission and (α,n) reactions, e.g. in UF6. The code SOURCES 4C is first used to obtain the energy spectrum of the neutrons inside the material, which is then fed into a MCNP model of the entire geometry to derive the neutron spectrum at the location of the Bonner sphere. Using this as the a priori spectrum produces a much more detailed unfolded Bonner sphere spectrum retaining fine structure from the calculation that would not be present if a simple estimated spectrum had been used as the a priori spectrum. This is illustrated using a Bonner sphere measurement of the neutron energy spectrum produced by a 48Y cylinder of UF6. From the unfolded spectrum an estimate has been made of the neutron ambient dose equivalent, i.e. the quantity which a neutron survey instrument should measure. The difference in the ambient dose equivalent of the unfolded spectrum is over 10% when using the novel approach instead of using a simpler estimate consisting of a single high energy peak, 1/E continuum, and thermal peak.

Comparison of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry and instrumental neutron activation analysis for the determination of rare earth elements in Greek bauxites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ochsenkuehn-Petropoulou, Maria; Luck, Joachim

1991-01-01

Fore the determination of rare earth elements (REE) in bauxitic materials the techniques of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) were compared. In the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) bauxites SRM 697 Dominican, and SRM 69 b Arkansas, the concentration of some REEs were determined. With the reference bauxite BX-N of the ARNT (Association Nationale de la Recherche Technique) the precision and accuracy of ICP-AES for the determination of REEs in bauxites was tested. Furthermore, Greek bauxites of the Parnassos-Giona area were investigated. In a comparison of the three methods it was possible to calculate from the data series the precision of each method, which showed that the tendency found in the deviations for the different REEs is in accordance with published values. Also the limits of detection for REEs in bauxites were calculated and found to be in the same range as those in the literature. (author)

Radiation dosimetry and spectrometry with superheated emulsions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

D'Errico, Francesco

2001-01-01

Detectors based on emulsions of overexpanded halocarbon droplets in tissue equivalent aqueous gels or soft polymers, known as 'superheated drop detectors' or 'bubble (damage) detectors', have been used in radiation detection, dosimetry and spectrometry for over two decades. Recent technological advances have led to the introduction of several instruments for individual and area monitoring: passive integrating meters based on the optical or volumetric registration of the bubbles, and active counters detecting bubble nucleations acoustically. These advances in the instrumentation have been matched by the progress made in the production of stable and well-specified emulsions of superheated droplets. A variety of halocarbons are employed in the formulation of the detectors, and this permits a wide range of applications. In particular, halocarbons with a moderate degree of superheat, i.e. a relatively small difference between their operating temperature and boiling point, can be used in neutron dosimetry and spectrometry since they are only nucleated by energetic heavy ions such as those produced by fast neutrons. More recently, halocarbons with an elevated degree of superheat have been utilised to produce emulsions that nucleate with much smaller energy deposition and detect low linear energy transfer radiations, such as photons and electrons. This paper reviews the detector physics of superheated emulsions and their applications in radiation measurements, particularly in neutron dosimetry and spectrometry

Characterization of neutron spectra using sources of {sup 241}AmBe, {sup 238}PuBe e {sup 252}Cf moderated in water; Caracterização de espectros neutrônicos com fontes de {sup 241}AmBe, {sup 238}PuBe e {sup 252}Cf moderados em água

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gonçalves, A.S.; Silva, F.S.; Patrão, K.C.S.; Fonseca, E.S. da; Pereira, W.W., E-mail: angela.souzagon@gmail.com [Instituto de Radioproteção e Dosimetria (IRD/CNEN-RJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil). Laboratório de Metrologia de Nêutrons

2017-07-01

Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of characterizing the spectrum of neutron sources for various energies in order to make the understanding of neutron interaction closer to reality they work with. This work presents the determination of neutron energy flux from the source of {sup 241}AmBe (0.6 TBq), {sup 238}PuBe (1.8 TBq) and {sup 252}Cf (120 μg) free in the air and inserted into spheres of various diameters containing distilled water. The determination of the spectrum is based on the measurement and simulation by the Monte Carlo computational method, using the sources under study, with the Bonner multisphere spectrometer containing readings with the detector without sphere and covered with polyethylene balls of diameters: 5,08 cm (2 ″), 7.62 cm (3″), 12.70 cm (5 ″), 20.32 cm (8 ″), 25.40 cm (10 ″) and 30.48 cm (12 ″). It is sought to characterize a new moderate spectrum in water using the sources of {sup 241}AmBe, {sup 238}PuBe and {sup 252}Cf that may be useful for testing, calibration and irradiation of individual and area monitors for neutrons.

Multi-sphere unit cell model to calculate the effective thermal conductivity in pebble bed reactors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Van Antwerpen, W.; Rousseau, P.G.; Du Toit, C.G.

2010-01-01

A proper understanding of the mechanisms of heat transfer, fluid flow and pressure drop through a packed bed of spheres is of utmost importance in the design of a high temperature Pebble Bed Reactor (PBR). While the gas flows predominantly in the axial direction through the bed, the total effective thermal conductivity is a lumped parameter that characterises the total heat transfer in the radial direction through the packed bed. The study of the effective thermal conductivity is important because it forms an intricate part of the self-acting decay heat removal chain, which is directly related to the PBR safety case. The effective thermal conductivity is the summation of various heat transport phenomena. These are the enhanced thermal conductivity due to turbulent mixing as the fluid passes through the voids between pebbles, heat transfer due to the movement of the solid spheres and thermal conduction and thermal radiation between the spheres in a stagnant fluid environment. In this study, the conduction and radiation between the spheres are investigated. Firstly, existing correlations for the effective thermal conductivity are investigated, with particular attention given to its applicability in the near-wall region. Several phenomena in particular are examined namely: conduction through the spheres, conduction through the contact area between the spheres, conduction through the gas phase and radiation between solid surfaces. A new approach to simulate the effective thermal conductivity for randomly packed beds is then presented, namely the so-called Multi-sphere Unit Cell Model. The model is validated by comparing the results with that obtained in experiments. (authors)

A neutron spectrometer based on temperature variations in superheated drop compositions

CERN Document Server

Apfel, R E

2002-01-01

The response of superheated drop detectors (SDDs) to neutron radiation varies in a self-consistent manner with variations in temperature and pressure, making such compositions suitable for neutron spectrometry. The advantage of this approach is that the response functions of candidate materials versus energy as the temperature or pressure is varied are nested and have distinct thresholds, with no thermal neutron response. These characteristics permit unfolding without the uncertainties associated with other spectrometry techniques, where multiple solutions are possible, thus requiring an initial guess of the spectrum. A spectrometer was developed based on the well-established technology for acoustic sensing of bubble events interfaced with a proportional-integral-derivative temperature controller. The active monitor for neutrons, called REMbrandt sup T sup M , was used as the platform for controlling temperature on a SDD probe and for data acquisition, thereby automating the process of measuring the neutron e...

Optimization of the architecture of a neural network in neutron spectrometry to reduce the number of Bonner spheres

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Leon P, A. A.; Martinez B, M. R.; Hernandez P, C. F.; Espinoza G, J. G.; Castaneda M, V. H.; Solis S, L. O.; Castaneda M, R.; Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R.; Mendez V, R.; Gallego, E.; De Sousa L, M. A.

2016-10-01

The neutron spectrometry is an experimental process for determining the energy distribution called the Spectrum. Among the methods available for neutron spectrometry, one can mention the Bonner Sphere Spectrometric System as one of the most used, consisting of a detector placed in the center of a set of polyethylene spheres whose diameters range from 2 to 18 inches, however has some disadvantages such as the long periods of time to perform the measurements, the weight and the spheres number that vary according to the system. From this, alternative methods such as artificial neural networks are proposed. For this project neural networks of reverse propagation were used with the methodology of robust design of artificial neural networks, with the aid of a computational tool that maximizes the performance, making the time used for the training s of the network is the smallest possible and thus gets the orthogonal fixes quickly to determine the best network topology. The counting rates of a spectrometric system with 7 spheres, 2 spheres and one sphere of 5 and 8 inches were used. This methodology seeks to reduce the work used as in the spectrometric system formed by a greater number of spheres, since to enter less data in the counting rates to obtain the spectra with 60 energy levels saves time and space, because at having a smaller number of spheres its portability is easier to move from one place to another, for this we performed several experiments with different errors until we reached the optimal error so that the topology of the network was appropriate and find the best design parameters. A statistical software JMP was also used to obtain the best topologies and thus to retrain obtaining its best and worst spectra, in order to determine if the reduction is possible. (Author)

Installation for Studying the Scattering of Cold Neutrons; Installation pour l'etude de la diffusion des neutrons thermiques; Ustanovka dlya izucheniya rasseyaniya kholodnykh nejtronov; Instalacion para estudiar la dispersion de neutrones frios

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Golikov, V V; Shapiro, F L; Shkatula, A; Yanik, E A [Ob' edinennyj institut yadernykh issledovanij, Dubna, Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (Russian Federation)

1963-01-15

Using the pulsed fut reactor in the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, an installation was set up to investigate the spectrometry of cold neutrons. The moderator, adjoining the reactor reflector, and the beryllium filter were at the temperature of liquid nitrogen. The scatterer, located at a distance of about 0. 6 m from the moderator, was irradiated by flashes of cold neutrons, whose duration was determined by the lifetime of the neutrons in the moderator and the dispersion of the times-of-flight over a distance of 0. 6 m. The frequency of the flashes was 8/s. The steep beryllium edge of the spectrum, lying around 200 {mu}s, was used for spectrometry in the quasi-elastic range. The energy of the scattered neutrons was determined by the time-of-flight over the distance between scatterer and detector, which was about 10-40 m. ZnS + 10{sub 2}{sup 10} O{sub 3} scintillation detectors with surfaces of 300 and 2 000 cm{sup 2} were used and the efficiency, for fast neutrons, was about 60%. (author) [French] A l'aide du reacteur a flux pulse de neutrons rapides de l'Institut unifie de recherches nucleaires, les auteurs ont mis au point une installation pour la spectrometrie des neutrons thermiques. Le ralentisseur contigu au reflecteur du reacteur et le filtre deberyllium sont maintenus a la temperature de l'azote liquide. Le diffuseur, place a environ 60 cm du ralentisseur, est irradie par une bouffee de neutrons thermiques dont la duree est determinee par la vie moyenne des neutrons dans le ralentisseur et par l'etalement des temps de vol necessaires pour parcourir la distance de 60 cm. La frequence des bouffees est de 8/s. Pour la spectrometrie dans la region quasi-elastique, on utilise la bande en bordure du spectre qui correspond au beryllium et s'etale sur environ 200 {mu}s. L'energie des neutrons diffuses est determinee par la duree du parcours entre le diffuseur et le detecteur. Les auteurs ont utilise des detecteurs a scintillation a ZnS + 10{sub 2}{sup 10} O

Isotopic composition of uranium in U3O8 by neutron induced reactions utilizing thermal neutrons from critical facility and high resolution gamma-ray spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Acharya, R.; Pujari, P.K.; Goel, Lokesh

2015-01-01

Uranium in oxide and metal forms is used as fuel material in nuclear power reactors. For chemical quality control, it is necessary to know the isotopic composition (IC) of uranium i.e., 235 U to 238 U atom ratio as well as 235 U atom % in addition to its total concentration. Uranium samples can be directly assayed by passive gamma ray spectrometry for obtaining IC by utilizing 185 keV (γ-ray abundance 57.2%) of 235 U and 1001 keV (γ-ray abundance 0.837%) of 234m Pa (decay product of 238 U). However, due to low abundance of 1001 keV, often it is not practiced to obtain IC by this method as it gives higher uncertainty even if higher mass of sample and counting time are used. IC of uranium can be determined using activity ratio of neutron induced fission product of 235 U to activation product of 238 U ( 239 Np). In the present work, authors have demonstrated methodologies for determination of IC of U as well as 235 U atom% in natural ( 235 U 0.715%) and low enriched uranium (LEU, 3-20 atom % of 235 U) samples of uranium oxide (U 3 O 8 ) by utilizing ratio of counts at 185 keV γ-ray or γ-rays of fission products with respect to 277 keV of 239 Np. Natural and enriched samples (about 25 mg) were neutron irradiated for 4 hours in graphite reflector position of AHWR Critical Facility (CF) using highly thermalized (>99.9% thermal component) neutron flux (∼10 7 cm -2 s -1 )

Iterative nonlinear unfolding code: TWOGO

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hajnal, F.

1981-03-01

a new iterative unfolding code, TWOGO, was developed to analyze Bonner sphere neutron measurements. The code includes two different unfolding schemes which alternate on successive iterations. The iterative process can be terminated either when the ratio of the coefficient of variations in terms of the measured and calculated responses is unity, or when the percentage difference between the measured and evaluated sphere responses is less than the average measurement error. The code was extensively tested with various known spectra and real multisphere neutron measurements which were performed inside the containments of pressurized water reactors

A neutron spectrum unfolding code based on generalized regression artificial neural networks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Martinez B, M. R.; Castaneda M, R.; Solis S, L. O.; Vega C, H. R.

2015-10-01

The most delicate part of neutron spectrometry, is the unfolding process. Then derivation of the spectral information is not simple because the unknown is not given directly as result of the measurements. Novel methods based on Artificial Neural Networks have been widely investigated. In prior works, back propagation neural networks (BPNN) have been used to solve the neutron spectrometry problem, however, some drawbacks still exist using this kind of neural nets, as the optimum selection of the network topology and the long training time. Compared to BPNN, is usually much faster to train a generalized regression neural network (GRNN). That is mainly because spread constant is the only parameter used in GRNN. Another feature is that the network will converge to a global minimum. In addition, often are more accurate than BPNN in prediction. These characteristics make GRNN be of great interest in the neutron spectrometry domain. In this work is presented a computational tool based on GRNN, capable to solve the neutron spectrometry problem. This computational code, automates the pre-processing, training and testing stages, the statistical analysis and the post-processing of the information, using 7 Bonner spheres rate counts as only entrance data. The code was designed for a Bonner Spheres System based on a 6 LiI(Eu) neutron detector and a response matrix expressed in 60 energy bins taken from an International Atomic Energy Agency compilation. (Author)

A neutron spectrum unfolding code based on generalized regression artificial neural networks

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Martinez B, M. R.; Castaneda M, R.; Solis S, L. O. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Ingenieria Electrica, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde 801, Col. Centro, 98000 Zacatecas, Zac. (Mexico); Vega C, H. R., E-mail: morvymm@yahoo.com.mx [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Estudios Nucleares, Cipres No. 10, Fracc. La Penuela, 98068 Zacatecas, Zac. (Mexico)

2015-10-15

The most delicate part of neutron spectrometry, is the unfolding process. Then derivation of the spectral information is not simple because the unknown is not given directly as result of the measurements. Novel methods based on Artificial Neural Networks have been widely investigated. In prior works, back propagation neural networks (BPNN) have been used to solve the neutron spectrometry problem, however, some drawbacks still exist using this kind of neural nets, as the optimum selection of the network topology and the long training time. Compared to BPNN, is usually much faster to train a generalized regression neural network (GRNN). That is mainly because spread constant is the only parameter used in GRNN. Another feature is that the network will converge to a global minimum. In addition, often are more accurate than BPNN in prediction. These characteristics make GRNN be of great interest in the neutron spectrometry domain. In this work is presented a computational tool based on GRNN, capable to solve the neutron spectrometry problem. This computational code, automates the pre-processing, training and testing stages, the statistical analysis and the post-processing of the information, using 7 Bonner spheres rate counts as only entrance data. The code was designed for a Bonner Spheres System based on a {sup 6}LiI(Eu) neutron detector and a response matrix expressed in 60 energy bins taken from an International Atomic Energy Agency compilation. (Author)

Study of neutron spectra using sources of {sup 241}AmBE and {sup 238}PuBe moderated in water; Estudo de espectros neutrônicos com fontes de {sup 241}AmBE e {sup 238}PuBe moderados em água

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gonçalves, Angela S.; Silva, Fellipe S.; Patrão, Karla C.S.; Fonseca, Evaldo S. da; Pereira, Walsan W., E-mail: angela.souzagon@gmail.com [Instituto de Radioprotecao e Dosimetria, (IRD/CNEN-RJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil). Laboratorio de Metrologia de Neutrons; Fundação Técnico-Educacional Souza Marques (FTESM), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil)

2017-11-01

Recent works demonstrate the increasing importance of characterizing the spectrum of neutron sources for various energies. The main objective of this study is to make the understanding of the interaction of neutrons as close as possible to the reality in which the workers act, thus allowing to act directly in the area of radioprotection. In this way, neutron fluence determination of the {sup 241}AmBe source of 0.6 TBq (16 Ci) and {sup 238} PuBe 1.8 TBq (50 Ci) free in the air and inserted in aluminium spheres of 16 cm and 20.5 cm filled with distilled water. The measurements were carried out in the low scattering laboratory of the Laboratory of Neutron Metrology, in order to obtain a more realistic spectrum. Spectrum determination is based on measurement using the Bonner multisphere spectrometer containing readings with the ball-free detector and covered with polyethylene spheres having diameters of: 5,08 cm (2″), 7,62 cm (3″), 12,70 cm (5″), 20,32 cm (8″), 25,40 cm (10″) e 30,48 cm (12″). The aim is to characterize a new moderate spectrum in water using the sources of {sup 238}PuBe and {sup 241}AmBe that may represent realistic fields in the radioprotection area useful for testing, calibration and irradiation of individual and area monitors for neutrons.

Neutron spectrum determination of d(20)+Be source reaction by the dosimetry foils method

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Štefánik, Milan; Bém, Pavel; Majerle, Mitja; Novák, Jan; Šimečková, Eva

2017-01-01

Roč. 140, NOV (2017), s. 466-470 ISSN 0969-806X R&D Projects: GA MŠk LM2015056 Institutional support: RVO:61389005 Keywords : multi-foil activation technique * accelerator-based neutron source * neutron spectrometry * Gamma-ray spectrometry * reaction rate * charged particle accelerator Subject RIV: BG - Nuclear, Atomic and Molecular Physics, Colliders OBOR OECD: Nuclear physics Impact factor: 1.315, year: 2016

Neutron Activation Analysis with k0 standardisation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pomme, S.

1998-01-01

The objectives of the research are: (1) to develop and implement the k0 standardisation method for neutron activation analysis in close collaboration with scientific partners; (2) to exploit fully the inherent qualities of NAA such as accuracy, traceability, and multi-element offer complete services in health-physics measurements according to international quality standards, (2) to improve continuously these measurement techniques and to follow up international recommendations and legislation concerning the surveillance of workers; (3) to support and advise nuclear and non-nuclear industry on problems of radioactive contamination. Achievements in 1997 related to gamma spectrometry, whole-body counting, beta and alpha spectrometry, dosimetry, radon measurements, calibration, instrumentation, and neutron activation analysis are described

Fission and activation of uranium by fashion-plasma neutrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lee, J.H.; Hochl, F.; McFarland, D.R.

1978-01-01

Disks of enriched and depleted uranium were irradiated by neutrons from the D-D fusions in a dense plasma-focus. A fission yield of 10 6 fissions-cm -3 in U 235 per pulse was determined with Ge(Li) gamme-ray spectrometry. Activation of U 238 caused increased beta activity after the plasma-neutron irradiation but alpha-particle spectrometry showed Pu 239 production was negligible. In addition, with a disk of lithium in the apparatus, 13.3 MeV neutrons from 7 Li(d,n) 8 Be was observed with a 80-m time-of-flight neutron detector. Dense plasma focuses are now operated not only in a single coaxial gun, but also in improved geometries, such as the hypocycloidal pinch and the staged plasma focus, from which a multiple plasma-focus array suitable for experimental verification of, and eventuel development into a fusion-fission hybrid reactor could be produced. (orig.) [de

Li-Ion Batteries for Forensic Neutron Dosimetry

Science.gov (United States)

2016-03-01

Li-Ion Batteries for Forensic Neutron Dosimetry Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release, distribution is unlimited. March...ion batteries are the common technology for powering portable electronics. The nuclear reactions within the batteries are sensitive to neutrons. By...and chemical changes within the battery . These changes can be determined by mass spectrometry or gamma and beta spectroscopy of long-lived

The application of computer technique in routine neutron activation analysis using high resolution gamma ray spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Szopa, Z.; Plejewska, M.; Staszelis, J.

1982-01-01

A full system of four computer programs for routine - qualitative and quantitative - neutron activation analysis (NAA) using high resolution gamma ray-spectrometry had been elaborated. The structure and possibilities of the ''data flow'' programs i.e. programs DIDPDP and DIDCDC, dedicated for fast and reliable ''off line'' data transfer between the buffer memory of the spectrometric line (9-track magnetic tape) and the fast access memory (disc) of the used computers PDP-11/45 and CYBER-73 had been presented. The structure and organization of the ''data processing'' programs i.e. programs SAWAPS and MAZYG had been presented as well. The utility and reliability of these programs in the case of the large-scale, routine NAA, exampled by analysis of filters with air polutants, had been tested and discussed. Programs are written mainly in FORTRAN. (author)

Software tool for resolution of inverse problems using artificial intelligence techniques: an application in neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Castaneda M, V. H.; Martinez B, M. R.; Solis S, L. O.; Castaneda M, R.; Leon P, A. A.; Hernandez P, C. F.; Espinoza G, J. G.; Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R.; Mendez, R.; Gallego, E.; Sousa L, M. A.

2016-10-01

The Taguchi methodology has proved to be highly efficient to solve inverse problems, in which the values of some parameters of the model must be obtained from the observed data. There are intrinsic mathematical characteristics that make a problem known as inverse. Inverse problems appear in many branches of science, engineering and mathematics. To solve this type of problem, researches have used different techniques. Recently, the use of techniques based on Artificial Intelligence technology is being explored by researches. This paper presents the use of a software tool based on artificial neural networks of generalized regression in the solution of inverse problems with application in high energy physics, specifically in the solution of the problem of neutron spectrometry. To solve this problem we use a software tool developed in the Mat Lab programming environment, which employs a friendly user interface, intuitive and easy to use for the user. This computational tool solves the inverse problem involved in the reconstruction of the neutron spectrum based on measurements made with a Bonner spheres spectrometric system. Introducing this information, the neural network is able to reconstruct the neutron spectrum with high performance and generalization capability. The tool allows that the end user does not require great training or technical knowledge in development and/or use of software, so it facilitates the use of the program for the resolution of inverse problems that are in several areas of knowledge. The techniques of Artificial Intelligence present singular veracity to solve inverse problems, given the characteristics of artificial neural networks and their network topology, therefore, the tool developed has been very useful, since the results generated by the Artificial Neural Network require few time in comparison to other techniques and are correct results comparing them with the actual data of the experiment. (Author)

A neutron spectrum unfolding code based on generalized regression artificial neural networks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rosario Martinez-Blanco, Ma. del

2016-01-01

The most delicate part of neutron spectrometry, is the unfolding process. The derivation of the spectral information is not simple because the unknown is not given directly as a result of the measurements. Novel methods based on Artificial Neural Networks have been widely investigated. In prior works, back propagation neural networks (BPNN) have been used to solve the neutron spectrometry problem, however, some drawbacks still exist using this kind of neural nets, i.e. the optimum selection of the network topology and the long training time. Compared to BPNN, it's usually much faster to train a generalized regression neural network (GRNN). That's mainly because spread constant is the only parameter used in GRNN. Another feature is that the network will converge to a global minimum, provided that the optimal values of spread has been determined and that the dataset adequately represents the problem space. In addition, GRNN are often more accurate than BPNN in the prediction. These characteristics make GRNNs to be of great interest in the neutron spectrometry domain. This work presents a computational tool based on GRNN capable to solve the neutron spectrometry problem. This computational code, automates the pre-processing, training and testing stages using a k-fold cross validation of 3 folds, the statistical analysis and the post-processing of the information, using 7 Bonner spheres rate counts as only entrance data. The code was designed for a Bonner Spheres System based on a "6LiI(Eu) neutron detector and a response matrix expressed in 60 energy bins taken from an International Atomic Energy Agency compilation. - Highlights: • Main drawback of neutron spectrometry with BPNN is network topology optimization. • Compared to BPNN, it’s usually much faster to train a (GRNN). • GRNN are often more accurate than BPNN in the prediction. These characteristics make GRNNs to be of great interest. • This computational code, automates the pre-processing, training

Development of educational program for neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chung, Yong Sam; Moon, Jong Hwa; Kim, Sun Ha; Ryel, Sung; Kang, Young Hwan; Lee, Kil Yong; Yeon, Yeon Yel; Cho, Seung Yeon

2000-08-01

This technical report is developed to apply an educational and training program for graduate student and analyst utilizing neutron activation analysis. The contents of guide book consists of five parts as follows; introduction, gamma-ray spectrometry and measurement statistics, its applications, to understand of comprehensive methodology and to utilize a relevant knowledge and information on neutron activation analysis

Development of educational program for neutron activation analysis

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chung, Yong Sam; Moon, Jong Hwa; Kim, Sun Ha; Ryel, Sung; Kang, Young Hwan; Lee, Kil Yong; Yeon, Yeon Yel; Cho, Seung Yeon

2000-08-01

This technical report is developed to apply an educational and training program for graduate student and analyst utilizing neutron activation analysis. The contents of guide book consists of five parts as follows; introduction, gamma-ray spectrometry and measurement statistics, its applications, to understand of comprehensive methodology and to utilize a relevant knowledge and information on neutron activation analysis.

Personnel neutron dose assessment upgrade: Volume 1, Personnel neutron dosimetry assessment: [Final report

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hadlock, D.E.; Brackenbush, L.W.; Griffith, R.V.; Hankins, D.E.; Parkhurst, M.A.; Stroud, C.M.; Faust, L.G.; Vallario, E.J.

1988-07-01

This report provides guidance on the characteristics, use, and calibration criteria for personnel neutron dosimeters. The report is applicable for neutrons with energies ranging from thermal to less than 20 MeV. Background for general neutron dosimetry requirements is provided, as is relevant federal regulations and other standards. The characteristics of personnel neutron dosimeters are discussed, with particular attention paid to passive neutron dosimetry systems. Two of the systems discussed are used at DOE and DOE-contractor facilities (nuclear track emulsion and thermoluminescent-albedo) and another (the combination TLD/TED) was recently developed. Topics discussed in the field applications of these dosimeters include their theory of operation, their processing, readout, and interpretation, and their advantages and disadvantages for field use. The procedures required for occupational neutron dosimetry are discussed, including radiation monitoring and the wearing of dosimeters, their exchange periods, dose equivalent evaluations, and the documenting of neutron exposures. The coverage of dosimeter testing, maintenance, and calibration includes guidance on the selection of calibration sources, the effects of irradiation geometries, lower limits of detectability, fading, frequency of calibration, spectrometry, and quality control. 49 refs., 6 figs., 8 tabs

5th symposium on neutron dosimetry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Spurny, F

1985-03-01

The symposium was held in Neuherberg near Munich on September 17-20, 1984 and was attended by 200 specialists from 20 coutries. The participants discussed the following areas of neutron dosimetry: basic concept and analysis of irradiation, basic data, proportional counters in radiation protection, detector response and spectrometry, enviromental monitoring, radiobiology and biophysical models, analysis of neutron fields, thermoluminescent detectors, personnel monitoring, calibration, measurement in the environment of /sup 252/Cf sources, analysis of fields and detector response, standardization dosimetry, ionization chambers, planning of therapeutical irradiation study of depth dose distribution, facilities for neutron therapy and international comparison. (E.S.).

5th symposium on neutron dosimetry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Spurny, F.

1985-01-01

The symposium was held in Neuherberg near Munich on September 17-20, 1984 and was attended by 200 specialists from 20 coutries. The participants discussed the following areas of neutron dosimetry: basic concept and analysis of irradiation, basic data, proportional counters in radiation protection, detector response and spectrometry, enviromental monitoring, radiobiology and biophysical models, analysis of neutron fields, thermoluminescent detectors, personnel monitoring, calibration, measurement in the environment of 252 Cf sources, analysis of fields and detector response, standardization dosimetry, ionization chambers, planning of therapeutical irradiation study of depth dose distribution, facilities for neutron therapy and international comparison. (E.S.)

Measurement of planetary surface composition by gamma-ray and neutron spectrometry - Preparatory studies for Mars and for the Moon by numerical simulations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gasnault, O.

1999-01-01

Gamma-ray and neutron spectrometry sets up a powerful tool of geological and geochemical characterization of planetary surfaces. This method allows to tackle some critical planet science questions: crustal and mantle compositions; ices; volcanism; alteration processes... Most of the neutrons and gamma photons result from the interactions of galactic cosmic rays with matter. The first chapter introduces the physics of these nuclear interactions in planetary soils and in detectors. Our work aims at optimizing the observations by specifying instrumental performances, and by highlighting relations between soil composition and neutron fluxes. Numerical simulations using the GEANT code from CERN support our analysis. The second chapter estimates the performances of the Germanium gamma-ray spectrometer for MARS SURVEYOR 2001. The result of simulations is compared to calibration measurements; then performances are calculated in flight configuration. The background at Mars is estimated to about 160 c/s. The instrument offers a fine sensitivity to: Fe, Mg, K, Si, Th, Cl and O. It will also be possible to measure U, Ti, H, C, S, Ca and Al. The emission lobes at the surface are calculated too. These measurements shall permit a better understanding of the Martian surface. The last chapter deals with fast neutrons [500 keV; 10 MeV] emitted by the Moon. The strong influence of oxygen is underlined. As observed by LUNAR PROSPECTOR, the integrated flux shows a pronounced dependence with regolith content in iron and titanium, allowing the mapping. The influence of the other chemical elements is quantified. A simple mathematical formula is suggested to estimate the integrated neutron flux according to soil composition. At last, a study of hydrogen effects on fast neutron flux is carried out; we examine the possibilities to quantify its abundance in the soil by this method. (author)

Moderation of Neutrons Emitted by a Pulsed Source and Neutron Spectrometry Based on Slowing-Down Time; Ralentissement des Neutrons Emis par une Source Pulsee et Leur Spectrometrie en Fonction du Temps de Ralentissement; Zamedlenie nejtronov, ispuskaemykh impul'snym istochnikom, i spektrometriya nejtronov po vremeni zamedleniya; Moderacion de Neutrones Emitidos por una Pitente Pulsada y Espectrometria Neutronica Basada en el Tiempo de Frenado

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bergman, A. A.; Isakov, A. I.; Kazarnovskij, M. V.; Popov, Ju. P.; Shapiro, F. L. [Fizicheskij Institut Im. P.N. Lebedeva AN SSSR, Moskva, SSSR (Russian Federation)

1965-08-15

Over the past ten years research has been going on at the P.N. Lebedev Physics Institute on the non-stationary moderation of neutrons in heavy media, the development of a method of neutron spectrometry based on the slowing-down time and the use of this method in studying the energy dependence of the cross-sections of nuclear reactions produced by neutrons with energy up to 30 keV. The authors review this work and discuss the results achieved. After a brief discussion of the theory of the non-stationary moderation and thermalization of neutrons the authors set forth the results of experimental studies of neutron moderation in graphite, iron and lead, and of neutron thermalization in lead. Using a pulsed neutron source and resonance detectors the distribution of slowing-down times was measured up to a series of fixed values for final neutron energy. The results are compared with theory, which takes into account the thermal motion of the moderator atoms; in the case of lead this thermal motion leads to a measurable spread in the slowing-down times at energies below 10 eV. The relationship between the mean velocity of neutrons in lead and the slowing-down time is measured in the subcadmium energy range and a comparison made with multigroup theory. The procedure for determining the energy dependence of neutron reaction cross-sections by slowing-down time is described and the potentialities of this method of spectrometry discussed. There follows a brief discussion of the results obtained in two fields of spectrometric measurement. Firstly, precise measurement of the relative excitation functions of the following reactions: He{sup 3}(n, p), Li{sup 6}(n, {alpha}), B{sup 10}(n, {alpha}) and N{sup 14}(n, p) - the most interesting results being the discovery of a constant negative component of the reaction cross-section and indications of the existence of an excited He{sup 4} level. Secondly, measurement of the energy dependence of averaged radiative capture cross

Certification of a nickel metal reference material for neutron dosimetry (EC Nuclear Reference Material 521)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pauwels, J.

1988-01-01

Nickel metal, of 99.99 % nominal purity and natural isotopic composition, in the form of 0.1 mm thick foil and 0.5 mm diameter wire has been certified for its cobalt mass fraction. The certified value of cobalt (<0.1μg.g-1) is based on 38 results obtained by neutron activation analysis, emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma excitation and atomic absorption spectrometry, whereas the isotopic composition of the nickel was verified by thermal ionization mass spectrometry. The material is intended to be used as a reference material in neutron metrology

Differential neutron spectrometry in the very low neutron energy range. Neutron cross sections for Zr, Al, polyethylene and liquid fluoropolymers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pokotilovskij, Yu.N.; Novopol'tsev, M.I.; Geltenbort, P.; Brenner, T.

2003-01-01

Some results of the test of the time-of-flight neutron spectrometers in the energy range (0.05-2.5)μeV are described. The measurements of total and differential cross sections were performed for several substances relevant to the experiments in the physics of ultracold neutrons: Zr, Al, polyethylene and liquid fluoropolymers

Certification of an aluminium metal reference material for neutron dosimetry (EC nuclear reference material 523)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pauwels, J.; Ingelbrecht, C.

1990-01-01

Aluminium metal of > 99.999% nominal purity in the form of 0.1 mm and 1 mm thick foil and of 1 mm diameter wire has been certified for its sodium mass fraction. The certified value of the sodium mass fraction ( -1 ) is based on 21 results from three laboratories using two different methods, which are neutron activation analysis and atomic absorption spectrometry. The overall purity was estimated using spark source mass spectrometry and neutron activation analysis. The material is intended to be used as a reference material in neutron metrology

Virtual Gamma Ray Radiation Sources through Neutron Radiative Capture

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Scott Wilde, Raymond Keegan

2008-07-01

The countrate response of a gamma spectrometry system from a neutron radiation source behind a plane of moderating material doped with a nuclide of a large radiative neutron capture cross-section exhibits a countrate response analogous to a gamma radiation source at the same position from the detector. Using a planar, surface area of the neutron moderating material exposed to the neutron radiation produces a larger area under the prompt gamma ray peak in the detector than a smaller area of dimensions relative to the active volume of the gamma detection system.

Thermal neutron detectors based on complex oxide crystals

CERN Document Server

Ryzhikov, V; Volkov, V; Chernikov, V; Zelenskaya, O

2002-01-01

The ways of improvement of spectrometric quality of CWO and GSO crystals have been investigated with the aim of their application in thermal neutron detectors based on radiation capture reactions. The efficiency of the neutron detection by these crystals was measured, and the obtained data were compared with the results for sup 6 LiI(Tl) crystals. It is shown that the use of complex oxide crystals and neutron-absorption filters for spectrometry of thermal and resonance neutrons could be a promising method in combination with computer data processing. Numerical calculations are reported for spectra of gamma-quanta due to radiation capture of the neutrons. To compensate for the gamma-background lines, we used a crystal pair of heavy complex oxides with different sensitivity to neutrons.

On experimental testing of the weak equivalence principle for the neutron

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pokotilovskij, Yu.N.

1994-01-01

The considerations is presented of the experimental situation with the verification of the weak equivalence principle for the neutron. The direct method is proposed to significantly increase (to ∼ 10 -6 ) the precision of the equivalence principle for the neutron in the Galilei type experiment, which uses the thin-film Fabri-Perot interferometer and precise time-of-flight spectrometry of ultracold neutrons

Utilization of the intense pulsed neutron source (IPNS) at Argonne National Laboratory for neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Heinrich, R.R.; Greenwood, L.R.; Popek, R.J.; Schulke, A.W. Jr.

1983-01-01

The Intense Pulsed Neutron Source (IPNS) neutron scattering facility (NSF) has been investigated for its applicability to neutron activation analysis. A polyethylene insert has been added to the vertical hole VT3 which enhances the thermal neutron flux by a factor of two. The neutron spectral distribution at this position has been measured by the multiple-foil technique which utilized 28 activation reactions and the STAYSL computer code. The validity of this spectral measurement was tested by two irradiations of National Bureau of Standards SRM-1571 (orchard leaves), SRM-1575 (pine needles), and SRM-1645 (river sediment). The average thermal neutron flux for these irradiations normalized to 10 μamp proton beam is 4.0 x 10 11 n/cm 2 -s. Concentrations of nine trace elements in each of these SRMs have been determined by gamma-ray spectrometry. Agreement of measured values to certified values is demonstrated to be within experiment error

Sensitivities and interferences in activation analysis with cyclotron-produced fast neutrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Esprit, M.; Vandecasteele, C.; Hoste, J.

1985-01-01

Fast neutrons are produced by irradiation of a thick beryllium target with deuterons from a cyclotron. The spatial neutron flux distribution was studied. Ge(Li) gamma-ray spectrometry was used to measure the radionuclides produced. Detection limits are tabulated along with the nuclear interferences. (author)

Evolutionary neural networks: a new alternative for neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Martinez B, M. R.; Vega C, H. R.; Galleo, E.

2009-10-01

A device used to perform neutron spectroscopy is the system known as a system of Bonner spheres spectrometer, this system has some disadvantages, one of these is the need for reconstruction using a code that is based on an iterative reconstruction algorithm, whose greater inconvenience is the need for a initial spectrum, as close as possible to the spectrum that is desired to avoid this inconvenience has been reported several procedures in reconstruction, combined with various types of experimental methods, based on artificial intelligence technology how genetic algorithms, artificial neural networks and hybrid systems evolved artificial neural networks using genetic algorithms. This paper analyzes the intersection of neural networks and evolutionary algorithms applied in the neutron spectroscopy and dosimetry. Due to this is an emerging technology, there are not tools for doing analysis of the obtained results, by what this paper presents a computing tool to analyze the neutron spectra and the equivalent doses obtained through the hybrid technology of neural networks and genetic algorithms. The toolmaker offers a user graphical environment, friendly and easy to operate. (author)

Methodology for iodine-129 determination in coniferous plant by neutron activation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Quintana, E.E.; Thyssen, S.M.

1998-01-01

Full text: The measurement methods of iodine-129 ( 129 I) include liquid scintillation counting, mass spectrometry analysis, X-ray spectrometry and neutron activation analysis. The combination of long half-life and low radiation energy, limit the sensitivity of a direct measurement in environmental matrixes. The neutron activation analysis (NAA) permits the increase in the sensitivity because of the high thermal neutron cross section of 129 I. The reaction produced is 129 I (n,γ) 130 I and the Eγ (536 keV) of iodine-130 (t 1/2 = 12,6 hours) is measured. The developed methodology allows the determination of 129 I in coniferous needles using NAA. The chemical treatment removes the interferences present in the matrix, as well as the Bromine-82 originated in the activation process. The analytical method is divided in six steps: a) digestion by alkaline fusion; b) radiochemical purification of 129 I by distillation followed by solvent extraction; c) distillation and adsorption on activated charcoal; d) neutron irradiation; e) radiochemical purification of 130 I by distillation followed by solvent extraction; f) gamma spectrometry. Iodine-131 tracer is added, and a chemical recovery of 95% in the distillations is obtained. The whole process recovery is within 70% and 85%. The detection limit is 0.48 mBq. Several factors affect this value, such as sample type, variety of coniferous, natural iodine concentration, irradiation time and neutron flux. (author) [es

Unfolding neutron spectra from simulated response of thermoluminescence dosimeters inside a polyethylene sphere using GRNN neural network

Science.gov (United States)

Lotfalizadeh, F.; Faghihi, R.; Bahadorzadeh, B.; Sina, S.

2017-07-01

Neutron spectrometry using a single-sphere containing dosimeters has been developed recently, as an effective replacement for Bonner sphere spectrometry. The aim of this study is unfolding the neutron energy spectra using GRNN artificial neural network, from the response of thermoluminescence dosimeters, TLDs, located inside a polyethylene sphere. The spectrometer was simulated using MCNP5. TLD-600 and TLD-700 dosimeters were simulated at different positions in all directions. Then the GRNN was used for neutron spectra prediction, using the TLDs' readings. Comparison of spectra predicted by the network with the real spectra, show that the single-sphere dosimeter is an effective instrument in unfolding neutron spectra.

Nondestructive neutron activation analysis of silicon carbide

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vandergraaf, T. T.; Wikjord, A. G.

1973-10-15

Instrumentel neutron activation analysis was used to determine trace constituents in silicon carbide. Four commercial powders of different origin, an NBS reference material, and a single crystal were characterized. A total of 36 activation species were identified nondestructively by high resolution gamma spectrometry; quantitative results are given for 12 of the more predominant elements. The limitations of the method for certain elements are discussed. Consideration is given to the depression of the neutron flux by impurities with large neutron absorption cross sections. Radiation fields from the various specimens were estimated assuming all radionuclides have reached their saturation activities. (auth)

Analytical applications of neutron capture gamma-rays

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lindstrom, R.M.; Paul, R.L.; Anderson, D.L.; Paul, R.L.

1997-01-01

Field and industrial applications of neutron capture gamma-ray spectrometry with isotopic sources or neutron generators are economically important. Geochemical exploration in boreholes is done routinely with neutron probes. Coal and ores are assayed with analyzers adjacent to a conveyor belt in dozens of industrial facilities. The use of capture gamma rays for explosives detection has been described in the literature, both for scanning airline baggage and for characterizing obsolete munitions; a packaged system for the latter is available commercially. Generalizations are drawn from the history of the field, and predictions are made about the future usefulness of capture gamma rays. (author)

Energetic-neutron spectrometry. Progress report, 1 June 1975--31 May 1976

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Madey, R.

1976-01-01

Research accomplishments are outlined including measurement of the response of four scintillators to protons from about 2 to 20 MeV; measurement of the neutron spectrum from 20 to nearly 600 MeV above the roof shielding of the Brookhaven AGS; development of a 2-parameter spectrometer for unidirectional neutrons from 5 to 200 MeV; a temperature-stable linear gate for nanosecond signals from photomultipliers and an optional stretcher circuit; and planning for measurement of the neutron spectrum at 135 0 from the main beam stop at LAMPF

Particle physics with cold neutrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dubbers, D.

1991-01-01

Slow neutrons are used in a large number of experiments to study the physics of particles and their fundamental interactions. Some of these experiments search for manifestations of ''new physics'' like baryon- or lepton-number nonconservation, time reversal nonconservation, new particles, right-handed currents, nonzero neutron charge, nonlinear terms in the Schrodinger equation, exotic e + e - states, and others. Other slow neutron experiments test the present Standard Model. The parity nonconserving weak neutron-nucleon interaction is studied in a variety of experiments. Free neutron beta decay gives precise values for the weak vector and axialvector coupling constants, which allow precise tests of basic symmetries like the conservation of the weak vector current, the unitarity of the weak quark mixing matrix, SU(3) flavour symmetry, and right-handed currents. Neutron beta decay data are further needed to calculate weak cross-sections, for applications, in big bang cosmology, in astrophysics, in solar physics and the solar neutrino problem, and in such mundane things as neutrino detection efficiencies in neutrino oscillation or proton decay experiments. Neutron-nucleon, neutron-nucleus and neutron-electron scattering lengths are determined in high precision experiments, which use methods like neutron interferometry or neutron gravity spectrometry. The experiments give information on quantities like the neutron charge radius or the neutron electric polarizability. Precision measurements of other fundamental constants lead to a better, model-independent value of the fine structure constant. Finally, the fundamental experiments on quantum mechanics, like spinor 4π -rotation, Berry's phase, dressed neutrons, Aharanov - Casher effect, or gravitational effects on the neutron's phase will be briefly discussed. (author)

Dosimetry in mixed (n,gamma) fields in relation to personnel monitoring

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nikodemova, D.; Hrabovcova, A.; Kubu, M.

1987-01-01

Neutron spectra were determined using neutron detection with a set of moderating spheres and the SAND computer method. A 6 LiI crystal or a pair of 6 LiF- 7 LiF thermoluminescence detectors was placed in the centre of 7 moderating spheres of 5 to 30 cm in diameter. 252 Cf and 241 Am-Be source were used in the calibration of the multisphere spectrometer. Neutron scattering from the walls, floor and ceiling was taken into consideration. The contribution of scattered neutrons was also determined for the case of measuring the 241 Am-Be spectrum with the source placed behind a water wall 10 cm thick. It is shown how the neutron energy distribution and the values of dose quantities altered as a result of the presence of scattered neutrons. The result of the presence of scattered neutrons. The results are discussed with respect to personnel monitoring. (author)

Individual neutron monitoring in workplaces with mixed neutron/proton radiation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bolognese-Milsztajn, T.; Bartlett, D.; Boschung, M.; Coeck, M.; Curzio, G.; D'Errico, F.; Fiechtner, A.; Giusti, V.; Gressier, V.; Kylloenen, J.; Lacoste, V.; Lindborg, L.; Luszik-Bhadra, M.; Molinos, C.; Pelcot, G.; Reginatto, M.; Schuhmacher, H.; Tanner, R.; Vanhavere, F.; Derdau, D.

2004-01-01

EVIDOS ('evaluation of individual dosimetry in mixed neutron and photon radiation fields') is an European Commission (EC)-sponsored project that aims at a significant improvement of radiation protection dosimetry in mixed neutron/photon fields via spectrometric and dosimetric investigations in representative workplaces of the nuclear industry. In particular, new spectrometry methods are developed that provide the energy and direction distribution of the neutron fluence from which the reference dosimetric quantities are derived and compared to the readings of dosemeters. The final results of the project will be a comprehensive set of spectrometric and dosimetric data for the workplaces and an analysis of the performance of dosemeters, including novel electronic dosemeters. This paper gives an overview of the project and focuses on the results from measurements performed in calibration fields with broad energy distributions (simulated workplace fields) and on the first results from workplaces in the nuclear industry, inside a boiling water reactor and around a spent fuel transport cask. (authors)

Improvements in fast-neutron spectroscopy methods (1961); Amelioration des methodes de spectrometrie des neutrons rapides (1961)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cambou, F [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1961-02-15

This research aimed at improving fast-neutron electronic detectors based on n-p elastic scattering. The first part concerns proportional counters; careful constructional methods have made it possible to plot mono-energetic neutron spectra in the range 700 keV - 3 MeV with a resolution of 7 per cent. The second part concerns scintillation counters: an organic scintillator and an inorganic scintillator covered with a thin layer of a scattering agent. An exact study of the types of scintillation has made it possible to develop efficient discriminator circuits. Different neutron spectra plotted in the presence of a strong gamma background are presented. The last part deals with the development of form discrimination methods for the study, in the actual beam, of the elastic scattering of 14.58 MeV electrons. With hydrogen, the distribution f ({phi}) of the recoil protons is f({phi}) = 1 + 0.034 cos {phi} + 0.042 cos{sup 2} {phi}. With tritium the scattering is strongly anisotropic; the curve representing the variation of the differential cross-section for the elastic scattering in the centre of mass system is obtained with a target containing 1 cm{sup 3} of tritium. (author) [French] Le travail a porte sur l'amelioration des detecteurs electroniques de neutrons rapides bases sur la diffusion elastique n-p. La premiere partie est relative aux compteurs proportionnels; des methodes soignees de fabrication ont permis des traces de spectres de neutrons monoenergetiques dans le domaine 700 keV - 3 MeV avec une resolution de 7 pour cent. La deuxieme partie est relative au compteur a scintillations; scintillateur organique et scintillateur mineral recouvert d'un diffuseur mince. Une etude precise des formes de scintillations a permis la mise au point de circuits discriminateurs efficaces. Differents spectres de neutrons traces en presence d'un fond gamma intense sont presentes. La derniere partie est relative a la mise en oeuvre des methodes de discrimination de forme pour l

Determination of hafnium at the 10−4% level (relative to zirconium content) using neutron activation analysis, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Smolik, Marek; Polkowska-Motrenko, Halina; Hubicki, Zbigniew; Jakóbik-Kolon, Agata; Danko, Bożena

2014-01-01

Graphical abstract: -- Highlights: •We worked out ICP-MS method of Hf determination in Zr and Zr compounds. •We used NAA method as reference one. •We obtained pure zirconium matrix by ion exchange (Diphonix ® resin). •These permit to determine ≥1 × 10 −4 % Hf in Zr sample by ICP MS with good precision and accuracy. -- Abstract: Hafnium at the very low level of 1–8 ppm (in relation to zirconium) was determined in zirconium sulfate solutions (originating from investigations of the separation of ca. 44 ppm Hf from zirconium by means of the ion exchange method) by using three independent methods: inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP MS), neutron activation analysis (NAA) and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). The results of NAA and ICP MS determinations were consistent with each other across the entire investigated range (the RSD of both methods did not exceed 38%). The results of ICP-AES determination were more diverse, particularly at less than 5 ppm Hf (RSD was significantly higher: 29–253%). The ion exchange method exploiting Diphonix ® resin proved sufficient efficiency in Zr–Hf separation when the initial concentration ratio of the elements ([Zr] 0 /[Hf] 0 ) ranged from 1200 to ca. 143,000

High-flux white neutron source based on p(35)-Be reactions for activation experiments at NPI

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Štefánik, Milan; Bém, Pavel; Götz, Miloslav; Katovsky, K.; Majerle, Mitja; Novák, Jan; Šimečková, Eva

2014-01-01

Roč. 104, NOV (2014), s. 306-309 ISSN 0969-806X. [1st International Conference on Dosimetry and its Applications (ICDA). Prague, 23.6.2013-28.6.2013] R&D Projects: GA MŠk(XE) LM2011019 Institutional support: RVO:61389005 Keywords : neutron generator * accelerator * dosimetry foils activation method * neutron spectrometry * Gamma-spectrometry * reaction rate Subject RIV: BG - Nuclear, Atomic and Molecular Physics, Colliders Impact factor: 1.380, year: 2014

Measurements of thermal neutron fluence in the bunker of a cyclotron for PET isotope production; Medidas de fluencia de neutrones termicos en el bunker de un ciclotron de produccion de isotopos para PET

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mendez Villafane, R.; Sansoloni florit, F.; Lagares gonzalez, J. L.; Llop Roig, J.; Guerrero Araque, J. E.; Muniz Gutierrez, J. L.; Perez Morales, J. M.

2011-07-01

To measure the neutron spectrum has been used spectrometry system based on Bonner spheres with Au flakes as thermal neutron detector at its center while the results are still pending and will be analyzing another job.

Some characteristics of a miniature neutron spectrometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sekimoto, H.; Oishi, K.; Hojo, K.; Hojo, T.

1984-01-01

Some characteristics of an NE213 miniature spherical spectrometer for in-assembly fast-neutron spectrometry were measured. As the bubbling time changed, the pulse-height did not change appreciably, but the n-γ discrimination characteristics changed considerably. As the count rate changed, the pulse-height did not change appreciably, and the change of the n-γ discrimination characteristics was acceptable. The neutron response function was measured to be almost isotropic except for the backward direction. (orig.)

Iterative code for the reconstruction of the neutrons spectrum using the Bonner spheres

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reyes H, A.; Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R.

2012-10-01

The neutrons are the particles more difficult of detecting for their intrinsic nature. The absence of the neutrons charge makes that an interaction exists with the matter in a different way. The term radiation spectrometry can use to describe the measurement of the intensity of a radiation field with regard to the energy. The intensity distribution with relationship to the energy is commonly known as spectrum. A method to know the neutrons spectrum in the radiation fields to those that people are exposed is the use of the known system as spectrometry system of Bonner spheres, being the more used for the purposes of the radiological protection. The current interest in the electrons spectrometry has stimulated the development of several procedures to carry out the reconstruction of the spectra. During the last decades new codes have been developed such as BUNKIUT, Bums, Fruit, UMG, etc., however, these methods still present several inconveniences as the complexity in their use, the necessity of an expert user and a very near initial spectrum to the spectrum that is wanted to obtain. To solve the mentioned problems it was development the program NSDUAZ (Neutron Spectrometry and Dosimetry from Autonomous University of Zacatecas). The objective of the present work is to prove and to validate the code before mentioned making an analysis of likeness and differences and of advantages and disadvantages with relationship to the codes used at the present time. (Author)

Neutron spectrometry in mixed fields: characterisation of the Ra-1- reactor workplace

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gregori, B.; Carelli, J.; Cruzate, J.; Papadopulos, S.

2006-01-01

The characterisation of the neutron spectrum of a workplace is an essential dosimetric tool for improving the assessment of the personal equivalent dose of the workers. In addition, if the operational conditions of the facility are well defined, the set of field spectra obtained may be used as a reference for comparing the performance of different type of neutron detectors. Recently, using a neutron spectrometric system based on a set of moderated spheres with 3 He detector, the characterisation of the neutron spectra in workplaces of the Argentine Reactor No. 1 (R.A. -1) has been carried out. The spectrometric system consists of 12 spheres made of the high density polyethylene d mean δ =0.95 g cm 3 , with diameters between 3'' and 12'' and a proportional counter of 3 He, 4 atm of nominal pressure, Centronic trade mark, located in the centre of the spheres. The neutron response matrix was calculated using the M.C.N.P. -I.V.B. code and E.N.D.F./B-VI library in the energy range between thermal neutron and 100 MeV. The neutron spectrum was unfolded using the M.A.X.E.D. unfolding code. The validation of the spectrometric system was performed at Cea-Cadarache (France) with of 252 Cf, Am Be, and 252 Cf + D 2 O sources. Therefore, in this work, the spectral fluence of the field in the selected points of the facility (R.A.-1) has been presented and the ambient dose equivalent, H *(10), and the personal dose equivalent, Hp(10), have been derived from the neutron fluence, applying ICRP-74 recommended fluence to dose conversion factors. The quantities evaluated have uncertainties less than 15%, which is considered good enough for radiation protection requirements. (authors)

Neutron activation analysis and activity in the vessel steel of a BWR reactor for their study without radiological risks in microscopy and spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Moranchel, M.; Garcia B, A.; Longoria G, L. C.

2012-01-01

The vessel material of nuclear reactors is subject to irradiation damage induced by the bombardment of neutrons coming from the reactor core. Neutrons are classified as fast and thermal, which produce different effects. Fast neutrons cause damage to the material by dislocation or displacement of atoms in the crystal structure, while the effect of thermal neutrons is a nuclear transmutation that can significantly change the properties of the material. The type and intensity of damage is based on the characteristics of the material, the flow of neutrons and the modes of neutrons interaction with the atomic structures of the material, among others. This work, alluding to nuclear transmutation, makes an analysis of neutron activation of all isotopes in a steel boiling water nuclear reactor (BWR) vessel. An analytical expression is obtained in order to model activity of steel, on the basis of the weight percentage of its atomic components. Its activity is theoretically estimated in a witness sample of the same material as that of the vessel, placed within the nuclear reactor since the beginning of its commercial operation in April 1995, up to August 2010. It was theoretically determined that the witness sample, with a 0.56 g mass (1 x 1 x 0.07 cm 3 dimensions or equivalent) does not present a radiological risks during the stage of preparation, observation and analysis of it in electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction equipment s. The theoretical results were checked experimentally by measuring the activity of the sample by means of gamma spectrometry, measurement of the exposure levels around the sample, as well as the induced level to whole body and limbs, using thermo-luminescent dosimetry (TLD). As a result of the theoretical analysis, new chemical elements are predicted, as a result of the activation phenomena and radioactive decay, whose presence can be a fundamental factor of change in the properties of the vessel. This work is a preamble to the investigation of

Calibration and automatic counting in a neutrons dosimeter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tavera-Davila, M.L.

1991-01-01

Over the past decade, the majority of improvements in spectrometry have not come from improved detectors but from better computing facilities, in Folding codes, and nuclear data. However several types of passive neutron detectors have the potential for development into crude, low resolution spectrometers, to be worn by individuals, making them attractive to be subject of more time of investigation. This thesis contributes to the understanding of the properties of solid state nuclear tracks (SSNTD) in order to use them in neutron dosimetry and spectrometry. In the first chapter the basic principles on neutron interaction with matter and some relevant considerations about detection and dosimetry are presented. The third chapter deals with detection properties of solid state nuclear track detectors (SSNTD). Calibration methods are presented for three different applications, detection of heavy ions, radon and neutrons. In chapter 4, some equations are derived which predict the whole efficiency formation of thin plastic detectors as a function of range, angle, and type of inciding particle as well as residual thickness. Using experimental data on proton registration properties in thin plastic detectors and the former derived equations, mathematical expressions are developed to predict the sparking counting efficiency for recoll protons and trions produced by neutrons in SSNTD. Chapter five deals with the comparison between experimental results and theoretical results of chapter 4. In chapter 6 experimental optimum parameters for electrochemical etching of thin plastic detectors are presented. The electrochemical etching efficiency is compared with the spark countering efficiency obtained in chapter 5. In chapter 7, general comments on applications to neutron dosimetry are presented. (Author)

Application of radiochemical neutron activation and atomic absorption spectrometry methods for the study of nutrition-pollution interactions in children

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tran Bang Diep [Institute for Nuclear Science and Technique, VAEC, P.O. Box 5T-160, Hanoi (Viet Nam)]. E-mail: tranfbangdiepj@yahoo.com; Tran Dai Nghiep [Institute for Nuclear Science and Technique, VAEC, P.O. Box 5T-160, Hanoi (Viet Nam)]. E-mail: tdnghiep@vaec.gov.vn

2005-07-01

The application of radiochemical neutron activation analysis (RNAA) and atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) is expected to aid in understanding and evaluating the effects of environmental pollution on the nutritional status of children already exposed to marginal malnutrition. Samples of placenta, of low-weight and control newborns groups, were collected for determination of nutritional elements and pollutants. The mean ratios of pollutants and nutrients such as Cd/Zn, Hg/Se and Pb/Ca were evaluated for both groups. All these ratios in the placenta of the low-weight newborns are higher than that of the healthy group. The degree of the nutrient-pollutant interaction is evaluated by quantity R, with mercury considered as the most active pollutant while calcium the most active nutrient among the involved elements in process of the interaction. (author)

Assessment of elemental pollution in soil of Islamabad city using instrumental neutron activation analysis and atomic absorption spectrometry techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Daud, M.; Wasim, M.; Khalid, N.; Zaidi, J.H.; Iqbal, J.

2009-01-01

The soil samples of nine different sites in Islamabad were studied for their elemental composition. Instrumental neutron activation analysis and atomic absorption spectrometry were employed and 33 elements were determined. The acquired data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, principal component analysis, cluster analysis, pollution level index and enrichment factor. A perusal of results shows a distribution of elemental concentration in two major groups, one along the highway and the other in industrial area of Islamabad. The soil along the highway sites was found to be relatively less polluted than at the sites in the industrial area. The enrichment factor indicates the presence of As, Pb, Sb, Se and Sn at higher levels. The method validation was done by analyzing IAEA reference materials SL-1 (lake sediment) and S7 (soil). (orig.)

Application of radiochemical neutron activation and atomic absorption spectrometry methods for the study of nutrition-pollution interactions in children

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tran Bang Diep; Tran Dai Nghiep

2005-01-01

The application of radiochemical neutron activation analysis (RNAA) and atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) is expected to aid in understanding and evaluating the effects of environmental pollution on the nutritional status of children already exposed to marginal malnutrition. Samples of placenta, of low-weight and control newborns groups, were collected for determination of nutritional elements and pollutants. The mean ratios of pollutants and nutrients such as Cd/Zn, Hg/Se and Pb/Ca were evaluated for both groups. All these ratios in the placenta of the low-weight newborns are higher than that of the healthy group. The degree of the nutrient-pollutant interaction is evaluated by quantity R, with mercury considered as the most active pollutant while calcium the most active nutrient among the involved elements in process of the interaction. (author)

Control of neutron spectrometry experiments using minicomputers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Uberschlag, Jacques.

1977-01-01

Some neutron spectrometers at EL3 were equipped with self-contained minicomputer control devices; the H11 experiment has been on operation since june 1976, the H5A and H9V experiments are presently in course of ultimate testing. The diagram shows the general organization of all the experiments. The special characteristics of each experiment are briefly outlined together with some technical aspects of the software (equipment interfaces, means for the physicist to intervene) [fr

A neutron spectrum unfolding computer code based on artificial neural networks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz-Rodríguez, J.M.; Reyes Alfaro, A.; Reyes Haro, A.; Cervantes Viramontes, J.M.; Vega-Carrillo, H.R.

2014-01-01

The Bonner Spheres Spectrometer consists of a thermal neutron sensor placed at the center of a number of moderating polyethylene spheres of different diameters. From the measured readings, information can be derived about the spectrum of the neutron field where measurements were made. Disadvantages of the Bonner system are the weight associated with each sphere and the need to sequentially irradiate the spheres, requiring long exposure periods. Provided a well-established response matrix and adequate irradiation conditions, the most delicate part of neutron spectrometry, is the unfolding process. The derivation of the spectral information is not simple because the unknown is not given directly as a result of the measurements. The drawbacks associated with traditional unfolding procedures have motivated the need of complementary approaches. Novel methods based on Artificial Intelligence, mainly Artificial Neural Networks, have been widely investigated. In this work, a neutron spectrum unfolding code based on neural nets technology is presented. This code is called Neutron Spectrometry and Dosimetry with Artificial Neural networks unfolding code that was designed in a graphical interface. The core of the code is an embedded neural network architecture previously optimized using the robust design of artificial neural networks methodology. The main features of the code are: easy to use, friendly and intuitive to the user. This code was designed for a Bonner Sphere System based on a 6 LiI(Eu) neutron detector and a response matrix expressed in 60 energy bins taken from an International Atomic Energy Agency compilation. The main feature of the code is that as entrance data, for unfolding the neutron spectrum, only seven rate counts measured with seven Bonner spheres are required; simultaneously the code calculates 15 dosimetric quantities as well as the total flux for radiation protection purposes. This code generates a full report with all information of the unfolding

Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry by means of evolutive neural networks; Espectrometria y dosimetria de neutrones por medio de redes neuronales evolutivas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz R, J.M.; Martinez B, M.R.; Vega C, H.R. [UAZ, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde Num. 801, 98000 Zacatecas (Mexico)

2008-07-01

The artificial neural networks and the genetic algorithms are two relatively new areas of research, which have been subject to a growing interest during the last years. Both models are inspired by the nature, however, the neural networks are interested in the learning of a single individual, which is defined as fenotypic learning, while the evolutionary algorithms are interested in the adaptation of a population to a changing environment, that which is defined as genotypic learning. Recently, the use of the technology of neural networks has been applied with success in the area of the nuclear sciences, mainly in the areas of neutron spectrometry and dosimetry. The structure (network topology), as well as the learning parameters of a neural network, are factors that contribute in a significant way with the acting of the same one, however, it has been observed that the investigators in this area, carry out the selection of the network parameters through the essay and error technique, that which produces neural networks of poor performance and low generalization capacity. From the revised sources, it has been observed that the use of the evolutionary algorithms, seen as search techniques, it has allowed him to be possible to evolve and to optimize different properties of the neural networks, just as the initialization of the synaptic weights, the network architecture or the training algorithms without the human intervention. The objective of the present work is focused in analyzing the intersection of the neural networks and the evolutionary algorithms, analyzing like it is that the same ones can be used to help in the design processes and training of a neural network, this is, in the good selection of the structural parameters and of network learning, improving its generalization capacity, in such way that the same one is able to reconstruct in an efficient way neutron spectra and to calculate equivalent doses starting from the counting rates of a Bonner sphere

A solution for neutron personal dosimetry in the absence of workplace spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hajek, M.; Cruz Suarez, R.

2016-01-01

In view of the widely varying energy spectra encountered in practical situations, accuracy of neutron dose assessment requires detailed knowledge of detector responses and workplace conditions to achieve an adequate level of protection. If the neutron spectrum should be a priori unknown and no measurement of the workplace spectrum is available, the 'Compendium of Neutron Spectra and Detector Responses for Radiation Protection Purposes' published in the International Atomic Energy Agency Technical Report Series offers a broad range of reference spectra that may be appropriate for many applications. The proposed approach applies a correction factor based on the ratio of 'personal dose equivalent indices' for a particular workplace spectrum and a reference field used for calibration of the dosemeter response. Amendments in the definition of operational quantities as well as introduction of new modalities that, for example, may be expected to give increased importance to high-energy neutrons necessitate frequent revision of the Compendium. Results from the European Radiation Dosimetry Group Intercomparison 2012 for neutron personal dosemeters provide evidence that workplace fields are insufficiently reflected. This is proposed to be considered as an improvement opportunity. (authors)

Capture analysis of element content of a substance with other neutron methods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kurbanov, B.I.

2004-01-01

Full text: Neutron analysis method of determining element composition have found wide range of applications in industry thanks to different types of interaction of neutron with substances /1/. With the aim of widening the range of problems to be solved, on the basis of the device /2/ for determining the element content of substance, possibilities of combining the method based on the use of neutron capture gamma-ray spectrometry with other neutron methods, in particular neutron activation analysis and neutron absorption analysis were studied. In this radionuclide source ( 252 Cf) with the yield of 1,5 x 10 7 neutron/sec is used. By means of using neutron capture gamma radiation spectrometry the possibilities of determining some elements (H, B, N, S etc. ), which are not determined by very widely used method, activation analysis. These elements can be determined by both the semiconductor and scintillation detectors with parameters fitting the manufacturing requirements. And for a number of elements ( B, Cl, Cd, Sm, Gd) very high limits of determination ( up to 10- 5 %) are possible using semiconductor Ge (Li) -detectors with high resolution. Possibility of determination of some 'well' activated elements ( K, Al, Fe, Mn, Ti, Sc etc.) in samples of ore and products of their processing using the neutron-activation analysis. For 1 hour of irradiation on the experimental device quite accurate analytical peak, of these elements are obtained, allowing to determine them qualitatively. However, with decreasing neutron yield of radionuclide source it becomes more difficult to achieve the necessary parameters both in neutron capture and activation analysis. Experimental works on determination of some elements with large cross-sections of capture ( B, Cd, Sm ) by absorption of neutrons in the investigated substance, i.e. using the neutron absorption analysis method with absence of other large capture cross section elements in the samples being studied

Accurate measurements of neutron activation cross sections

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Semkova, V.

1999-01-01

The applications of some recent achievements of neutron activation method on high intensity neutron sources are considered from the view point of associated errors of cross sections data for neutron induced reaction. The important corrections in -y-spectrometry insuring precise determination of the induced radioactivity, methods for accurate determination of the energy and flux density of neutrons, produced by different sources, and investigations of deuterium beam composition are considered as factors determining the precision of the experimental data. The influence of the ion beam composition on the mean energy of neutrons has been investigated by measurement of the energy of neutrons induced by different magnetically analysed deuterium ion groups. Zr/Nb method for experimental determination of the neutron energy in the 13-15 MeV energy range allows to measure energy of neutrons from D-T reaction with uncertainty of 50 keV. Flux density spectra from D(d,n) E d = 9.53 MeV and Be(d,n) E d = 9.72 MeV are measured by PHRS and foil activation method. Future applications of the activation method on NG-12 are discussed. (author)

Influence of Neutron Spectra Unfolding Method on Fast Neutron Dose Determination

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Marinkovic, P.

1991-01-01

Full text: Accuracy of knowing the fast neutron spectra has great influence on equivalent dose determination. In usual fast neutron spectrum measurements with scintillation detectors based on proton recoil, the main difficulty is confidence of unfolding method. In former ones variance of obtained result is usually great and negative values are possible too, which does means that we don't now exactly is obtained neutron spectrum real one. The new unfolding method based on Shanon's information theory, which gives non-negative spectrum and relative low variance, is obtained and appropriate numerical code for application in fast neutron spectrometry based on proton recoil is realized. In this method principle of maximum entropy and maximum likelihood are used together. Unknown group density distribution functions, which are considered as desired normalized mean neutron group flux, are constl u cted using only constrain of knowing mean value. Obtained distributions are consistent to available information (counts in NCA from proton recoil), while being maximally noncommittal with respect to all other unknown circumstances. For maximum likelihood principle, distribution functions around mean value of counts in the channels of MCA are taken to be Gauss function shape. Optimal non-negative solution is searched by means of Lagrange parameter method. Nonlinear system of equations, is solved using gradient and Newton iterative algorithm. Error covariance matrix is obtained too. (author)

Determination of europium content in Li_2SiO_3(Eu) by neutron activation analysis using Am-Be neutron source

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Naik, Yeshwant; Tapase, Anant Shamrao; Mhatre, Amol; Datrik, Chandrashekhar; Tawade, Nilesh; Kumar, Umesh; Naik, Haladhara

2016-01-01

Circulardiscs of Li_2SiO_3 doped with europium were prepared and a new activation procedure for the neutron dose estimation in a breeder blanket of fusion reactor is described. The amount of europium in the disc was determined by neutron activation analysis (NAA) using an isotopic neutron source. The average neutron absorption cross section for the reaction was calculated using neutron distribution of the Am-Be source and available neutron absorption cross section data for the "1"5"1Eu(n,γ)"1"5"2"mEu reaction, which was used for estimation of europium in the pallet. The cross section of the elements varies with neutron energy, and the flux of the neutrons in each energy range seen by the nuclei under investigation also varies. Neutron distribution spectrum of the Am-Be source was worked out prior to NAA and the effective fractional flux for the nuclear reaction considered for the flux estimation was also determined. - Highlights: • Lithium meta-silicate is breeder materials for a fusion reactor. • Europium is used for neutron dose estimation in a breeder blanket. • It is important to determine amount of europium in lithium meta-silicate. • Amount of europium in lithium meta-silicate was determined by neutron activation and off-line gamma spectrometry.

Evaluating the performance of two neutron spectrum unfolding codes based on iterative procedures and artificial neural networks

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz-Rodríguez, J. M.; Reyes Alfaro, A.; Reyes Haro, A.; Solís Sánches, L. O.; Miranda, R. Castañeda; Cervantes Viramontes, J. M.; Vega-Carrillo, H. R.

2013-01-01

In this work the performance of two neutron spectrum unfolding codes based on iterative procedures and artificial neural networks is evaluated. The first one code based on traditional iterative procedures and called Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry from the Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas (NSDUAZ) use the SPUNIT iterative algorithm and was designed to unfold neutron spectrum and calculate 15 dosimetric quantities and 7 IAEA survey meters. The main feature of this code is the automated selection of the initial guess spectrum trough a compendium of neutron spectrum compiled by the IAEA. The second one code known as Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry with artificial neural networks (NDSann) is a code designed using neural nets technology. The artificial intelligence approach of neural net does not solve mathematical equations. By using the knowledge stored at synaptic weights on a neural net properly trained, the code is capable to unfold neutron spectrum and to simultaneously calculate 15 dosimetric quantities, needing as entrance data, only the rate counts measured with a Bonner spheres system. Similarities of both NSDUAZ and NSDann codes are: they follow the same easy and intuitive user's philosophy and were designed in a graphical interface under the LabVIEW programming environment. Both codes unfold the neutron spectrum expressed in 60 energy bins, calculate 15 dosimetric quantities and generate a full report in HTML format. Differences of these codes are: NSDUAZ code was designed using classical iterative approaches and needs an initial guess spectrum in order to initiate the iterative procedure. In NSDUAZ, a programming routine was designed to calculate 7 IAEA instrument survey meters using the fluence-dose conversion coefficients. NSDann code use artificial neural networks for solving the ill-conditioned equation system of neutron spectrometry problem through synaptic weights of a properly trained neural network. Contrary to iterative procedures, in neural

Evaluating the performance of two neutron spectrum unfolding codes based on iterative procedures and artificial neural networks

Science.gov (United States)

Ortiz-Rodríguez, J. M.; Reyes Alfaro, A.; Reyes Haro, A.; Solís Sánches, L. O.; Miranda, R. Castañeda; Cervantes Viramontes, J. M.; Vega-Carrillo, H. R.

2013-07-01

In this work the performance of two neutron spectrum unfolding codes based on iterative procedures and artificial neural networks is evaluated. The first one code based on traditional iterative procedures and called Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry from the Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas (NSDUAZ) use the SPUNIT iterative algorithm and was designed to unfold neutron spectrum and calculate 15 dosimetric quantities and 7 IAEA survey meters. The main feature of this code is the automated selection of the initial guess spectrum trough a compendium of neutron spectrum compiled by the IAEA. The second one code known as Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry with artificial neural networks (NDSann) is a code designed using neural nets technology. The artificial intelligence approach of neural net does not solve mathematical equations. By using the knowledge stored at synaptic weights on a neural net properly trained, the code is capable to unfold neutron spectrum and to simultaneously calculate 15 dosimetric quantities, needing as entrance data, only the rate counts measured with a Bonner spheres system. Similarities of both NSDUAZ and NSDann codes are: they follow the same easy and intuitive user's philosophy and were designed in a graphical interface under the LabVIEW programming environment. Both codes unfold the neutron spectrum expressed in 60 energy bins, calculate 15 dosimetric quantities and generate a full report in HTML format. Differences of these codes are: NSDUAZ code was designed using classical iterative approaches and needs an initial guess spectrum in order to initiate the iterative procedure. In NSDUAZ, a programming routine was designed to calculate 7 IAEA instrument survey meters using the fluence-dose conversion coefficients. NSDann code use artificial neural networks for solving the ill-conditioned equation system of neutron spectrometry problem through synaptic weights of a properly trained neural network. Contrary to iterative procedures, in neural

Evaluating the performance of two neutron spectrum unfolding codes based on iterative procedures and artificial neural networks

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz-Rodriguez, J. M.; Reyes Alfaro, A.; Reyes Haro, A.; Solis Sanches, L. O.; Miranda, R. Castaneda; Cervantes Viramontes, J. M. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Ingenieria Electrica. Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde 801. Col. Centro Zacatecas, Zac (Mexico); Vega-Carrillo, H. R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Ingenieria Electrica. Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde 801. Col. Centro Zacatecas, Zac., Mexico. and Unidad Academica de Estudios Nucleares. C. Cip (Mexico)

2013-07-03

In this work the performance of two neutron spectrum unfolding codes based on iterative procedures and artificial neural networks is evaluated. The first one code based on traditional iterative procedures and called Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry from the Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas (NSDUAZ) use the SPUNIT iterative algorithm and was designed to unfold neutron spectrum and calculate 15 dosimetric quantities and 7 IAEA survey meters. The main feature of this code is the automated selection of the initial guess spectrum trough a compendium of neutron spectrum compiled by the IAEA. The second one code known as Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry with artificial neural networks (NDSann) is a code designed using neural nets technology. The artificial intelligence approach of neural net does not solve mathematical equations. By using the knowledge stored at synaptic weights on a neural net properly trained, the code is capable to unfold neutron spectrum and to simultaneously calculate 15 dosimetric quantities, needing as entrance data, only the rate counts measured with a Bonner spheres system. Similarities of both NSDUAZ and NSDann codes are: they follow the same easy and intuitive user's philosophy and were designed in a graphical interface under the LabVIEW programming environment. Both codes unfold the neutron spectrum expressed in 60 energy bins, calculate 15 dosimetric quantities and generate a full report in HTML format. Differences of these codes are: NSDUAZ code was designed using classical iterative approaches and needs an initial guess spectrum in order to initiate the iterative procedure. In NSDUAZ, a programming routine was designed to calculate 7 IAEA instrument survey meters using the fluence-dose conversion coefficients. NSDann code use artificial neural networks for solving the ill-conditioned equation system of neutron spectrometry problem through synaptic weights of a properly trained neural network. Contrary to iterative procedures, in

New mass analysis and results for neutron rich nuclei performed with isochronous mass spectrometry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Diwisch, Marcel [Justus-Liebig-Universitaet Giessen, Giessen (Germany); Knoebel, Ronja; Geissel, Hans; Plass, Wolfgang; Scheidenberger, Christoph [Justus-Liebig-Universitaet Giessen, Giessen (Germany); GSI Helmholtzzentrum fuer Schwerionenforschung, Darmstadt (Germany); Patyk, Zygmunt [Soltan Institute for Nuclear Studies, Warsaw (Poland); Weick, Helmut [GSI Helmholtzzentrum fuer Schwerionenforschung, Darmstadt (Germany)

2015-07-01

The Isochronous Mass Spectrometry (IMS) allows to measure masses of rare exotic nuclei in a storage ring in a timescale of tens of μs. The ring is operated in an isochronous mode, i.e. such that particles with different velocities but same mass-to-charge ratio (m/q) travel different paths in the ring arcs (faster ions travel longer paths whereas slower ions travel shorter paths). This means that for each m/q a fix revolution time exists and can be measured by a time-of-flight (TOF) detector which then yields the masses of the nuclei for known charge states. A new analysis approach of IMS data with a correlation matrix method allowed combining data with different quality. The latest production run was using an additional determination of the magnetic rigidity which increased the resolving power of the experiment. Combining this experiment with previous experiments one can increase the statistics and accuracy of the overall mass determination. It was possible to deduce mass values of neutron rich isotopes which have not been measured before. One of those isotopes is {sup 130}Cd which is a very important nuclei involved in the r-process. Those mass values and a comparison to theoretical predictions will be presented in the poster.

Extended use of alanine irradiated in experimental reactor for combined gamma- and neutron-dose assessment by ESR spectroscopy and thermal neutron fluence assessment by measurement of (14)C by LSC.

Science.gov (United States)

Bartoníček, B; Kučera, J; Světlík, I; Viererbl, L; Lahodová, Z; Tomášková, L; Cabalka, M

2014-11-01

Gamma- and neutron doses in an experimental reactor were measured using alanine/electron spin resonance (ESR) spectrometry. The absorbed dose in alanine was decomposed into contributions caused by gamma and neutron radiation using neutron kerma factors. To overcome a low sensitivity of the alanine/ESR response to thermal neutrons, a novel method has been proposed for the assessment of a thermal neutron flux using the (14)N(n,p) (14)C reaction on nitrogen present in alanine and subsequent measurement of (14)C by liquid scintillation counting (LSC). Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Considerations in the design of an improved transportable neutron spectrometer

CERN Document Server

Williams, A M; Brushwood, J M; Beeley, P A

2002-01-01

The Transportable Neutron Spectrometer (TNS) has been used by the Ministry of Defence for over 15 years to characterise neutron fields in workplace environments and provide local correction factors for both area and personal dosimeters. In light of advances in neutron spectrometry, a programme to evaluate and improve TNS has been initiated. This paper describes TNS, presents its operation in known radioisotope fields and in a reactor environment. Deficiencies in the operation of the instrument are highlighted, together with proposals for updating the response functions and spectrum unfolding methodologies.

Evaluate existing radiation fields

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aldrich, J.M.; Haggard, D.L.; Endres, G.W.R.; Fix, J.J.

1981-01-01

Knowledge of the spectrum of energies for beta, gamma, and neutron radiation experienced in the field is crucial to the proper interpretation of personnel dose. Calibration sources and techniques are determined on the basis of their relationship to field exposure. Selected techniques were used to obtain neutron, photon, and beta energy spectra data at several Hanford locations. Four neutron energy spectra and dose measurement methods were used: (1) multisphere spectrometer system; (2) tissue equivalent proportional counter (TEPC); (3) RASCAL (9'' to 3'' sphere ratios); and (4) helium-3 neutron spectrometer. Gamma spectroscopy was done using standard techniques. A specially designed TLD dosimeter was used to obtain beta spectrum measurements. The design and use of each of these instruments is described in the body of this report. Data collected and analyzed for each of the Hanford locations are included

Evaluation of response function of moderating-type neutron detector and application to environmental neutron measurement

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kosako, Toshiso; Nakamura, Takashi; Iwai, Satoshi; Katsuki, Shinji; Kamata, Masashi.

1983-08-01

The energy-dependent response function of a multi-cylinder moderating-type BF 3 counter, so-called Bonner counter, was calculated by the time-dependent multi-group Monte Carlo code, TMMCR. The calculated response function was evaluated experimentally for neutron energy below about 50 keV down to epithermal energy by the time-of-flight method combining with a large lead pile at the Nuclear Engineering Research Laboratory, University of Tokyo and also above 50 keV by using the monoenergetic neutron standard field a t the Electrotechnical Laboratory. The time delay in the polyethylene moderator of the Bonner counter due to multiple collisions with hydrogen was analyzed by the TMMCR code and used for the time-spectrum analysis of the time-of-flight measurement. The response function obtained by these two experiments showed good agreement with the calculated results. This Bonner counter having a response function evaluated from thermal to MeV energy range was used for spectrometry and dosimetry of environmental neutrons around some nuclear facilities. The neutron spectra and dose measured in the environment around a 252 Cf fission source, fast neutron source reactor and electron synchrotron were all in good agreement with the calculated results and the measured results with other neutron detectors. (author)

Design of a computation tool for neutron spectrometry and dosimetry through evolutionary neural networks; Diseno de una herramienta de computo para la espectrometria y dosimetria de neutrones por medio de redes neuronales evolutivas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Ingenieria Electrica, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde No. 801, Col. Centro, Zacatecas (Mexico); Martinez B, M. R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Estudios Nucleares, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde No. 801, Col. Centro, Zacatecas (Mexico); Gallego, E. [Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Departamento de Ingenieria Nuclear, Jose Gutierrez Abascal No. 2, E-28006 Madrid (Spain)], e-mail: morvymmyahoo@com.mx

2009-10-15

The neutron dosimetry is one of the most complicated tasks of radiation protection, due to it is a complex technique and highly dependent of neutron energy. One of the first devices used to perform neutron spectrometry is the system known as spectrometric system of Bonner spheres, that continuous being one of spectrometers most commonly used. This system has disadvantages such as: the components weight, the low resolution of spectrum, long and drawn out procedure for the spectra reconstruction, which require an expert user in system management, the need of use a reconstruction code as BUNKIE, SAND, etc., which are based on an iterative reconstruction algorithm and whose greatest inconvenience is that for the spectrum reconstruction, are needed to provide to system and initial spectrum as close as possible to the desired spectrum get. Consequently, researchers have mentioned the need to developed alternative measurement techniques to improve existing monitoring systems for workers. Among these alternative techniques have been reported several reconstruction procedures based on artificial intelligence techniques such as genetic algorithms, artificial neural networks and hybrid systems of evolutionary artificial neural networks using genetic algorithms. However, the use of these techniques in the nuclear science area is not free of problems, so it has been suggested that more research is conducted in such a way as to solve these disadvantages. Because they are emerging technologies, there are no tools for the results analysis, so in this paper we present first the design of a computation tool that allow to analyze the neutron spectra and equivalent doses, obtained through the hybrid technology of neural networks and genetic algorithms. This tool provides an user graphical environment, friendly, intuitive and easy of operate. The speed of program operation is high, executing the analysis in a few seconds, so it may storage and or print the obtained information for

Evaluation of the neutrons spectrum near the Venus reactor: use of MCNPX-2.5C

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Verboomen, B.; Coeck, M.; Baeten, P.

2003-01-01

The present study has been justified by the choice of the Venus reactor (SCK-CEN) as a true work environment for the project of the fifth programme - frame E.V.I.D.O.S.. The objective of this programme is the evaluation, in neutron-photon combined field, and in true environment (nuclear industry), of the different methods of measurement used in neutron dosimetry. The project aims to the determination of abilities and limits of dosemeters and to establish methods to get doses equivalents from data gotten by spectrometry, personal and ambient dosimetry. For each environment, reference values have to be determined by spectrometry (energy and angle). The knowledge of the distribution in energy and in angle of neutrons allows then the calculation of the different doses equivalents. The determination of these references values by direct neutron calculation allows the validation of the Monte Carlo model. (N.C.)

Study of neutron moderation using the {sup 241}Am-Be spectrum with hydrogenated materials; Estudo da moderacao de neutrons utilizando o espectro de {sup 241}Am-Be com materiais hidrogenados

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Santos, A.R.L.; Silva, F.S.; Martins, M.M.; Pereira, W.W., E-mail: aleiras@ird.gov.br [Instituto de Radioprotecao e Dosimetria (IRD/CNEN-RJ/LNMRI/LN), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil). Lab. de Neutrons; Freitas, B.M. [Coordenacao dos Programas de Pos-Graduacao em Engenharia (COPPE/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil). Programa de Engenharia Nuclear; Tavares, D.Y.S. [Instituto de Engenharia Nuclear (IEN/CNEN-RJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil)

2014-07-01

This work intends to assess materials for moderation of neutrons, trying to reduce the rate of H{sub p}(10) and H⁎p(10), reducing the effective dose of Occupationally Exposed Workers (OEW) who handle this source daily. The neutron spectra moderated by different materials was performed with a neutron source of {sup 241}Am-Be in an electronic positioning system, using a neutron spectrometry with Bonner Sphere at 50 cm from the center of source. The materials used for moderation were paraffin, silicone and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) resin ball. (author)

Non destructive testing and neutron radiography in 1994; Les controles non destructifs et la neutronographie en 1994

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bayon, G.

1994-12-31

Neutron radiography has been considered for a long time as a promising technique; however it plays a minor part in the world of non destructive testing today, due to the lack of suitable neutron sources and lack of new industrial applications. This paper reviews the present status of neutron sources, neutron radiography activities, especially in France (such as the neutron-capture-issued secondary radiation spectrometry), in nuclear, aerospace, aeronautical and metallurgical sectors, and the last applications of neutron dynamic imaging. 9 refs.

Multi-Reflection Time-of-Flight Mass Separation and Spectrometry

CERN Document Server

Kreim, Susanne; Wolf, R N

2014-01-01

The mass of a nucleus is one of its most fundamental ground-state properties and reveals the strength of nuclear binding. Investigating the binding energy of nuclei with respect to the number of protons and neutrons in a nucleus is important for advancing nuclear theory and increases our understanding of nucleosynthesis in supernovae and neutron stars. Precision mass measurements on radioactive nuclides belong to the state-of-the-art techniques [1, 2]. Presently, four complementary techniques are applied: isochronous and Schottky mass spectrometry in storage rings (IMS and SMS, respectively), magnetic-rigidity time-of-flight (TOF-ρ) measurements, and Penning-trap mass spectrometry (PTMS). With measurement cycles in the sub-ms range, IMS and TOF-Bρ MS are well suited for very short-lived species while offering moderate relative precision on the level of 10−6. A higher precision is achieved by SMS but with the need for measurement times on the order of several seconds. As soon as masses with a relative prec...

Conception of a New Recoil Proton Telescope for Real-Time Neutron Spectrometry in Proton-Therapy

Science.gov (United States)

Combe, Rodolphe; Arbor, Nicolas; el Bitar, Ziad; Higueret, Stéphane; Husson, Daniel

2018-01-01

Neutrons are the main type of secondary particles emitted in proton-therapy. Because of the risk of secondary cancer and other late occurring effects, the neutron dose should be included in the out-of-field dose calculations. A neutron spectrometer has to be used to take into account the energy dependence of the neutron radiological weighting factor. Due to its high dependence on various parameters of the irradiation (beam, accelerator, patient), the neutron spectrum should be measured independently for each treatment. The current reference method for the measurement of the neutron energy, the Bonner Sphere System, consists of several homogeneous polyethylene spheres with increasing diameters equipped with a proportional counter. It provides a highresolution reconstruction of the neutron spectrum but requires a time-consuming work of signal deconvolution. New neutron spectrometers are being developed, but the main experimental limitation remains the high neutron flux in proton therapy treatment rooms. A new model of a real-time neutron spectrometer, based on a Recoil Proton Telescope technology, has been developed at the IPHC. It enables a real-time high-rate reconstruction of the neutron spectrum from the measurement of the recoil proton trajectory and energy. A new fast-readout microelectronic integrated sensor, called FastPixN, has been developed for this specific purpose. A first prototype, able to detect neutrons between 5 and 20 MeV, has already been validated for metrology with the AMANDE facility at Cadarache. The geometry of the new Recoil Proton Telescope has been optimized via extensive Geant4 Monte Carlo simulations. Uncertainty sources have been carefully studied in order to improve simultaneously efficiency and energy resolution, and solutions have been found to suppress the various expected backgrounds. We are currently upgrading the prototype for secondary neutron detection in proton therapy applications.

Multielement analysis of rice flour-unpolished reference material by instrumental neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Suzuki, Shogo; Hirai, Shoji

1990-01-01

Trace elements in NIES certified reference material No. 10-a∼10-c Rice Flour-Unpolished, prepared by the National Institute for Environmental Studies of Japan (NIES), were determined by instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). A set of three samples with different Cd concentration levels was subjected to analyses. Portions of each sample (ca. 200∼1000 mg) were irradiated, either with thermal neutrons without cadmium filter or with epithermal neutrons with cadmium filter, in the Musashi Institute of Technology Research Reactor (MITRR). The activated samples were analyzed by the three methods; conventional γ-ray spectrometry using a coaxial Ge detector, anticoincidence counting spectrometry, and coincidence counting spectrometry using a coaxial Ge detector and a well type NaI(Tl) detector. Concentrations of 26∼28 elements were determined by these methods. The values obtained for many elements, except for Mg and K, were in good agreement with those of the NIES certified and reference. Concentrations of 10 elements (S, Sc, V, Ag, Sb, Cs, Ba, La, Sm, Th), whose certified or reference values are not available from NIES, were also determined in this work. (author)

Mass spectrometry in nuclear science and technology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Komori, Takuji

1985-01-01

Mass spectrometry has been widely used and playing a very important role in the field of nuclear science and technology. A major reason for this is that not only the types of element but also its isotopes have to be identified and measured in this field. Thus, some applications of this analytical method are reviewed and discussed in this article. Its application to analytical chemistry is described in the second section following an introductory section, which includes subsections for isotropic dilution mass spectrometry, resonance ionization mass spectrometry and isotopic correlation technique. The isotopic ratio measurement for hydrogen, uranium and plutonium as well as nuclear material control and safeguards are also reviewed in this section. In the third section, mass spectrometry is discussed in relation to nuclear reactors, with subsections on natural uranium reactor and neutron flux observation. Some techniques for measuring the burnup fraction, including the heavy isotopic ratio method and fission product monitoring, are also described. In the fourth section, application of mass spectrometry to measurement of nuclear constants, such as ratio of effective cross-sectional area for 235 U, half-life and fission yield is reviewed. (Nogami, K.)

Recent developments in very low energy neutron technology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Utsuro, Masahiko; Kawabata, Yuji; Yamaguchi, Akira; Yoshiki, Hajime.

1993-01-01

In this report, the recent state of the research and technical development of the neutrons in the energy region below 0.5 meV is introduced. The neutrons in this region are further divided into very cold neutrons (VCN) and ultracold neutrons (UCN). The UCNs are known by such characteristic behavior that they can be confined in a neutron bottle for long time. The attempt to verify the break of T conversion symmetry using neutrons is carried out. The experiment to show the break of T conversion symmetry by grasping the asymmetry of particle emission accompanying the beta decay of polarized neutrons is conceivable. In these cases, the use of UCNs in neutron bottles is effective. The optical properties of VCNs and UCNs are peculiar and resemble to those of light. The only VCN source in Japan is installed in the liquid deuterium CN source in the graphite facility of the KUR. VCNs are taken out from the reactor, and are converted to UCNs using a neutron turbine. The characteristics of an UCN bottle were measured, and the life of neutrons was determined as 887.6 ± 3s. The UCN experiment using superfluid helium was carried out, and the application of gravity to UCN spectrometry was developed as NESSIE. (K.I.)

Source Correlated Prompt Neutron Activation Analysis for Material Identification and Localization

Science.gov (United States)

Canion, Bonnie; McConchie, Seth; Landsberger, Sheldon

2017-07-01

This paper investigates the energy spectrum of photon signatures from an associated particle imaging deuterium tritium (API-DT) neutron generator interrogating shielded uranium. The goal is to investigate if signatures within the energy spectrum could be used to indirectly characterize shielded uranium when the neutron signature is attenuated. By utilizing the correlated neutron cone associated with each pixel of the API-DT neutron generator, certain materials can be identified and located via source correlated spectrometry of prompt neutron activation gamma rays. An investigation is done to determine if fission neutrons induce a significant enough signature within the prompt neutron-induced gamma-ray energy spectrum in shielding material to be useful for indirect nuclear material characterization. The signature deriving from the induced fission neutrons interacting with the shielding material was slightly elevated in polyethylene-shielding depleted uranium (DU), but was more evident in some characteristic peaks from the aluminum shielding surrounding DU.

Neutron measurement by transportable spectrometer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anon.

1990-01-01

Two levels of neutron spectrometry are in regular use at nuclear power plants: some techniques used in the laboratory produce detailed spectra but require specialist operators, while simple instruments used by non-specialists to measure the neutron dose-rate to operators provide little spectral information. The standard portable instruments are therefore of no use when anomalous readings are obtained which require further investigation. AEA Technology at Winfrith has developed a Transportable Neutron Spectrometer (TNS) which is designed to produce reasonable spectra in routine use by staff with no specialist skill in spectroscopy, and high-quality spectra in the hands of skilled staff. The TNS provides a level of information intermediate between those currently available, and is also designed to solve the problem of imperfect dose response which is common in portable dosimeters. The TNS system consists of a power supply, a probe and a signal processing and data acquisition unit. (author)

Measurements of the absolute neutron fluence spectrum emitted at 00 and 900 from the Little-Boy replica

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Roberts, J.H.; Gold, R.; Preston, C.C.

1986-01-01

Nuclear research emulsions (NRE) have been used to characterize the neutron spectrum emitted by the Little-Boy replica. NRE were irradiated at the Little-Boy surface, as well as approximately 2 m from the center of the Little-Boy replica, using polar angles of 0 0 , 30 0 , 60 0 , and 90 0 . For the NRE exposed at 2 m, neutron background was determined using shadow shields of borated polyethylene. Emulsion scanning to date has concentrated exclusively on the 2-m, 0 0 and 2-m, 90 0 locations. Approximately 5000 proton-recoil tracks have been measured in NRE irradiated at each of these locations. At the 2-m, 90 0 location, the NRE neutron spectrum extends from 0.37 MeV up to 8.2 MeV; whereas the NRE neutron spectrum at the 2-m, 0 0 location is much softer and extends only up to 2.7 MeV. NRE neutron spectrometry results at these two locations are compared with both liquid scintillator neutron spectrometry and Monte Carlo calculations. (author)

An organic scintillator neutron spectrometer suitable for in-phantom studies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Harrison, K.G.

1981-07-01

A transportable organic scintillator spectrometry system based on a 1 cm high x 1 cm dia. cylindrical stilbene scintillator with a 30 cm light-pipe has been developed for neutron spectrometry inside anthropomorphic phantoms in order to improve knowledge of dose and dose-equivalent distributions in the body. Electronic pulse-shape discrimination is used to discriminate between neutron and gamma-ray events in the scintillator. The spectrometer is shown to give excellent results in the range of neutron energies from 1.5 to 7 MeV when used with an unfolding program based on differentiation of the pulse-height distribution. Below 1 MeV problems are experienced with pulse-shape discrimination, and below 2 MeV there are found to be some shortcomings in the differentiation method for this size of scintillator. Above about 9 MeV more sophisticated unfolding methods are shown to be desirable. Problems of stability of the system, difficulties in the measurement and calculation of the response functions, and disadvantages of using stilbene are discussed. (author)

DETERMINATION OF LIMIT DETECTION OF THE ELEMENTS N, P, K, Si, Al, Fe, Cu, Cd, WITH FAST NEUTRON ACTIVATION USING NEUTRON GENERATOR

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Sunardi Sunardi

2010-06-01

Full Text Available Determination of limit detection of the elements N, P, K, Si, Al, Fe, Cu, Cd, with fast neutron activation using neutron generator has been done.  Samples prepared from SRM 2704, N, P, K elements from MERCK, Cu, Cd, Al from activation foil made in San Carlos, weighted and packed for certain weight then iradiated during 30 minutes with 14 MeV fast neutron using the neutron generator and then counted with gamma spectrometry (accuspec.  At this research condition of neutron generator was set at current 1 mA that produced neutron flux about 5,47.107 n/cm2.s and  experimental result shown that the limit detection for the elements N, P, K, Si, Al, Fe, Cu, Cd are  2,44 ppm, 1,88 ppm, 2,15 ppm, 1,44 ppm, 1,26 ppm, 1,35 ppm, 1,05 ppm, 2,99 ppm, respectively.  The data  indicate that the limit detection or sensitivity of appliance of neutron generator to analyze the element is very good, which is feasible to get accreditation AANC laboratory using neutron generator.   Keywords: limit detection, AANC, neutron generator

Application of Ge/Li/-spectrometry in boreholes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chrusciel, E.

1976-01-01

The paper presents the results of Ge/Li/ spectrometry applications in boreholes. The natural radioactivity measurements as well as rare elements determinations with the use of 252 Cf neutron source and capture-gamma and activation techniques are described. The minimum concentrations of certain elements to be determined in the field circumstances are evaluated on the basis of the model experiments. (author)

Measurement of 241Am Ground State Radiative Neutron Capture Cross Section with Cold Neutron Beam. Progress Report on Research Contract HUN14318 for the CRP on Minor Actinide Neutron Reaction Data (MANREAD)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Belgya, T.; Szentmiklosi, L.; Kis, Z.; Nagy, N.M.; Konya, J.

2012-01-01

The ground state cross section of 242 Am has been measured with beams of cold neutrons at the Budapest Research Reactor using the X-ray emission of the decay product of 242 Pu. This methodology avoids the uncertainty caused by resonance neutrons in the pile activations. The target was characterized with gamma and X-ray spectrometry. The obtained ground state cross section is 540 ± 32 b, which is at the low end of the most recent literature values, but agrees with most of them within their uncertainty. (author)

Neutron spectroscopy at the turn of the century

CERN Document Server

Popov, Yu P

2003-01-01

Neutron spectrometry is a powerful method of investigating atomic nuclei and condensed matter. Such investigations provide necessary data for a very wide spectrum of scientific and technological applications from the fundamental problems of the structure of matter and nucleosynthesis in the Universe to atomic power technologies and the structure of condensed matter. The most frequently utilized is the time-of-flight (TOF) method for powerful pulsed neutron sources. However, in many cases, one can use more effective, simpler and cheaper methods. For example, for astrophysics and radioactive waste transmutation problems, it is sufficient to know an average resonance cross section or "resonance integrals" for capture and fission reactions for neutron spectra specific to neutron fluxes in stars or in the active zone of a transmutation reactor. In these cases, the slow-down neutron spectroscopy (SDNS) methods in lead and graphite moderators will be useful. Compared to the TOF method, the lead SDNS gives a 10/sup 3...

Definition and production of calibration standard neutron sources for radiation protection device calibration

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

De Matos, E.

1987-01-01

To improve the characterization of radioprotection devices performances, it would be advisable to calibrate these devices in neutron spectra which are nearly like those met in practice (nuclear reactors, plutonium technology laboratories...). The purpose of this work is, in a first time, to choose the nature and the dimensions of the different shields used to achieve broad typical neutron spectra extending to lower energies from a 14.8 MeV neutron beam. The second step is the evaluation of spectral distribution and calculation of associated dosimetric quantities. For that, several spectrometric techniques are employed: on one hand, activation detectors and Bonner spheres method named rough spectrometry; on the other hand, an accurate spectrometry which uses recoil proton counters. The dosimetric quantities, especially the value of kerma deduced from these spectra must be in good agreement with those measured with a tissue equivalent ionization chamber [fr

Mercury mass measurement in fluorescent lamps via neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Viererbl, L.; Vinš, M.; Lahodová, Z.; Fuksa, A.; Kučera, J.; Koleška, M.; Voljanskij, A.

2015-01-01

Mercury is an essential component of fluorescent lamps. Not all fluorescent lamps are recycled, resulting in contamination of the environment with toxic mercury, making measurement of the mercury mass used in fluorescent lamps important. Mercury mass measurement of lamps via instrumental neutron activation analysis (NAA) was tested under various conditions in the LVR-15 research reactor. Fluorescent lamps were irradiated in different positions in vertical irradiation channels and a horizontal channel in neutron fields with total fluence rates from 3×10 8 cm −2 s −1 to 10 14 cm −2 s −1 . The 202 Hg(n,γ) 203 Hg nuclear reaction was used for mercury mass evaluation. Activities of 203 Hg and others induced radionuclides were measured via gamma spectrometry with an HPGe detector at various times after irradiation. Standards containing an Hg 2 Cl 2 compound were used to determine mercury mass. Problems arise from the presence of elements with a large effective cross section in luminescent material (europium, antimony and gadolinium) and glass (boron). The paper describes optimization of the NAA procedure in the LVR-15 research reactor with particular attention to influence of neutron self-absorption in fluorescent lamps. - Highlights: • Mercury is an essential component of fluorescent lamps. • Fluorescent lamps were irradiated in neutron fields in research reactor. • 203 Hg induced radionuclide activity was measured using gamma spectrometry. • Mercury mass in fluorescent lamps can be measured by neutron activation analysis.

Dosimetry Characterization of the Neutron Fields of the Intermediate Temporary Storage of the Trillo Nuclear Power Plant

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Campo Blanco, X.

2015-01-01

The Neutron Standards Laboratory of CIEMAT, in collaboration with the Trillo Nuclear Power Plant, has conducted a detailed dosimetric and spectrometric characterization of the neutron fields at the Intermediate Temporary Storage of the Trillo Nuclear Power Plant, as well as the neutron fields of ENSA-DPT spent fuel casks. For neutron measurements, neutron monitors and a Bonner spheres spectrometry system have been used. In addition, a Monte Carlo model of the installation and the cask has been developed and validated.

Spectrometry and dosimetry of a neutron source

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vega C, H.R.; Manzanares A, E.; Hernandez D, V.M.; Ramirez G, J.; Hernandez V, R.; Chacon R, A.

2007-01-01

Using Monte Carlo methods the spectrum, dose equivalent and ambient dose equivalent of a 239 PuBe at several distances has been determined. Spectrum and both doses, at 100 cm, were determined-experimentally using a Bonner sphere spectrometer. These quantities were obtained by unfolding the spectrometer count rates using artificial neural networks. The dose equivalent, based in the ICRP 21 criteria, was measured with the area neutron dosemeter Eberline model NRI), at 100, 200 and 300 cm. All measurements were carried out in an open space to avoid the room return. With these results it was found that this source has a yield of 8.41E(6) n/s. (Author)

Determination of neutron spectra using the programs GNSR and SPECTRIX

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Weyrauch, M.; Dietz, E.; Matzke, M.

2002-01-01

We describe the capabilities and the application of two computer programs, which have been developed in order to facilitate common tasks in neutron spectrometry: GNSR (calculation of response matrices) and SPECTRIX (unfolding). Gas-filled Neutron Spectrometer Response calculates response functions and response matrices of various gas-filled neutron detectors. It can be configured to accommodate the appropriate gas-fillings and supports a number of different neutron beam configurations with a possibility to input calculated or measured neutron beam spectra. The program includes graphical capabilities as well as a context-sensitive help system. SPECTRIX implements several unfolding algorithms as well as support algorithms for unfolding and includes graphics capabilities and context-sensitive help. We apply both programs to a specific example: calculation of the response matrix of a 3 He detector and unfolding of the neutron spectrum of a thick accelerator target using the calculated response matrix

On-line neutron activation analyzers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Flahaut, V.; Colmon, A.

1999-01-01

A neutronic analyser has been designed to determine the composition of the flow of raw materials entering a cement factory on the conveyor belt. This new system gives a reliable analysis of the whole cargo that outdates the sampling or the usual surface analysis based on fluorescence spectrometry. The accuracy is about 1%.The neutrons interact with the materials on an average depth of 25 cm and are absorbed by nuclei, these nuclei produce photons whose energy is characteristic of the chemical element itself. The composition can be deduced by measuring the number of photons emitted and their energy. The analysis is made on-line and can concern the search for about 10 compounds. In the case of cement the list of compounds is: SiO 2 , CaO, Al 2 O 3 , Fe 2 O 3 , MgO, Na 2 O, TiO 2 , S, Mn 2 O 3 , K 2 O, and H 2 O. The neutron generator involves a deuterium ion source whose deuterium ions are accelerated by means of an electrical field and impinge on a tritiated target, the nuclear reactions between deuterium and tritium produce 14 MeV neutrons. This neutron analysing technique can be adapted to any need of on-line composition determination. (A.C.)

Detection and measurement of neutron-irradiated gemstones

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bunnak, S.; Jerachanchai, S.; Chinudomsub, K.; Saiyut, K.

1990-01-01

Color enhance gemstone, neutron-irradiated topaz, was analyzed by gamma spectrometry for examining characteristic and activity. Topaz was irradiated in the wet-tube facility of the Research Reactor TRR/1 which neutron fluence is 2.52x10 17 neutron per square centimeter. After 100 days of decay, topaz was sampling to the qualitative and quantitative analysis using multichannel analyzer of Nuclear Data Model ND65 and hyper pure germanium detector. Calculation and evaluation were done by microcomputer IBM/PC 640 KB RAM. The qualitative analysis showed that the neutron-irradiated topaz has 2 major isotopes, i.e., Ta-182 and Sc-46. Quantitative activity was compared with reference standard source Eu-152 (NBS) and the results were shown in the table 1. The Health Physics Division, OAEP, inspected on 6240.9 gm of the neutron-irradiated topaz using standard release limit 2 nCi/gm (74 Bq/gm). It was found that only 423.9 gm out of the total amount were over the standard release limit

Characterization of the neutron spectra at the final of the installations labyrinth with medical accelerators; Caracterizacion del espectro de neutrones al final del laberinto de instalaciones con aceleradores medicos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carelli, J.; Cruzate, J.A.; Gregori, B.; Papadopulos, S.; Discacciatti, A. [Autoridad Reguladora Nuclear, Av. del Libertador 8250, Buenos Aires (Argentina)]. e-mail: jcarelli@cae.arn.gov.ar

2006-07-01

A linear electron accelerator for medical use is an equipment dedicated to the production of collimated beams of electrons and/or photons. In an accelerator of a bigger potential or equal to 6 MV, are produced neutrons starting from the reaction (gamma, n) due to the interaction of the photons with the materials that compose the headset and the target. In this work the theoretical and experimental studies carried out to characterize the neutron spectra to the exit of the labyrinth of three bunkers of different geometry with accelerators of 15 MV, with the purpose of evaluating the effective dose of the occupationally exposure personnel are presented. It was carried out the simulation of the neutron transport with the MCNPX code and the ENDF/B - VI library. With the objective of analyzing the variables that affect the spectral distribution the bunkers of two existent facilities in Argentina were modeled. It was considered a isotropic punctual source located in the supposed position of the target. The spectra of {sup 252} Cf and of Watt of 1.8 MeV of half energy were simulated. The election of the sources was based on published works that suppose initial neutron sources with half energy between 1.8 and 2.3 MeV for accelerators of 15 at 25 MV. Its were considered headsets of different dimensions, with and without phantom of water disperser in the patient's position and several field dimensions in the isocenter. The spectral distribution doesn't present significant differences in the different modeling situations. Its were carried out measurements, with the multisphere spectrometric system based on twelve polyethylene spheres and a spherical detector of {sup 3} He, to the exit of each one of the bunkers. It was carried out the convolution of the spectrum using the MXD{sub F}C33 code (of the UMG33 set), considering as initial spectrum that of the fission type (inverse of the energy). The obtained spectra and the environmental equivalent dose rate in each case

Advances in continuous gamma-ray spectrometry and applications

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gold, R.; McNeece, J.P.; Kaiser, B.J.

1984-07-01

Recent advances and applications in continuous Compton recoil gamma-ray spectrometry are described. Applications of continuous gamma-ray spectrometry are presented for: (1) Characterization of light water reactor (LWR) pressures vessel (PV) environments. (2) Assessment of fuel distributions for Three Mile Island Unit 2 (TMI-2) reactor recovery. (3) Measurement of LWR-PV-neutron exposure. The latest improvements attained with the Janus probe, a special in-situ configuration of Si(Li) detectors, are presented. The status of current efforts to extend the domain of applicability of this method beyond 3 MeV is discussed with emphasis on recent work carried out with Si(Li) detectors of much larger volume

Neutron activation and mass spectrometric measurement of /sup 129/I

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Strebin, R.S. Jr.; Brauer, F.P.; Kaye, J.H.; Rapids, M.S.; Stoffels, J.J.

1987-11-01

An integrated procedure has been developed for measurement of /sup 129/I by neutron activation analysis and mass spectrometry. An iodine isolation procedure previously used for neutron activation has been modified to provide separated iodine suitable for mass spectrometric measurement as well. Agreement between both methods has been achieved within error limits. The measurement limit by each method is about 10/sup 7/ atoms (2 fg) of /sup 129/I. 13 refs,. 4 figs., 1 tab

RDANN a new methodology to solve the neutron spectra unfolding problem

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz R, J.M.; Martinez B, M.R.; Vega C, H.R. [UAZ, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde No. 801, 98000 Zacatecas (Mexico)

2006-07-01

The optimization processes known as Taguchi method and DOE methodology are applied to the design, training and testing of Artificial Neural Networks in the neutron spectrometry field, which offer potential benefits in the evaluation of the behavior of the net as well as the ability to examine the interaction of the weights and neurons inside the same one. In this work, the Robust Design of Artificial Neural Networks methodology is used to solve the neutron spectra unfolding problem, designing, training and testing an ANN using a set of 187 neutron spectra compiled by the International Atomic Energy Agency, to obtain the better neutron spectra unfolded from the Bonner spheres spectrometer's count rates. (Author)

RDANN a new methodology to solve the neutron spectra unfolding problem

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J.M.; Martinez B, M.R.; Vega C, H.R.

2006-01-01

The optimization processes known as Taguchi method and DOE methodology are applied to the design, training and testing of Artificial Neural Networks in the neutron spectrometry field, which offer potential benefits in the evaluation of the behavior of the net as well as the ability to examine the interaction of the weights and neurons inside the same one. In this work, the Robust Design of Artificial Neural Networks methodology is used to solve the neutron spectra unfolding problem, designing, training and testing an ANN using a set of 187 neutron spectra compiled by the International Atomic Energy Agency, to obtain the better neutron spectra unfolded from the Bonner spheres spectrometer's count rates. (Author)

Instrumental neutron activation analysis for coal

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Suzuki, Shohgo; Okada, Yukiko; Hirai, Shoji

1985-01-01

Various methods of neutron irradiation and of gamma-ray spectrometry were used in order to improve the detection sensitivity. Gamma-ray spactra of irradiated samples were collected by four methods, namely, spectrometry using a coaxial Ge(Li) detector, anticoincidence and coincidence counting spectrometries using a coaxial Ge(Li) detector and a well-type NaI(Tl) detector, and low energy photon spectrometry using a planer Ge detector (LEPS). Gamma-ray spectra obtained were analyzed by a peak-fitting procedure using a minicomputer system (GAMA system). Concentration of 35 elements (Na, Mg, Al, Cl, K, Ca, Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn, As, Br, Rb, Sr, Zr, Mo, Sb, Cs, Ba, La, Ce, Sm, Eu, Tb, Dy, Hf, Ta, W, Th and U) were determined by the combination of no-filter irradiation and spectrometry using a coaxial Ge(Li) detector that is conventionaly widely used. Concentrations of other 19 elements were determined by other combinations of irradiation and spectrometry. Mercury concentration was determined by the combination of no-filter irradiation and anticoincidence counting spectrometry. Concentrations of 7 elements (Cu, Nd, Gd, Ho, Tm, Yb and Lu) were determined by the combination of no-filter irradiation and LEPS. Concentrations of 3 elements (In, Ga and Ag) were determined by the combination of cadmium-filter irradiation and spectrometry using a coaxial Ge(Li) detector. Concentrations of 5 elements (Pr, Cd, Au, Te and Sn) were determined by the combination of cadmium-filter irradiation and anticoincidence counting spectrometry. Selenium concentration was determined by the combination of cadmium-filter irradiation and coincidence counting spectrometry. Silicon concentration was determined by the combination of boron-filter irradiation and spectrometry using a coaxial Ge(Li) detector. Iodine concentration was determined by the combination of boron-filter irradiation and anticoincidence counting spectrometry. (J.P.N.)

Spectrometry and dosimetry of a neutron source

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vega C, H.R.; Manzanares A, E.; Hernandez D, V.M.; Ramirez G, J.; Hernandez V, R.; Chacon R, A. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, 98068 Zacatecas (Mexico)]. e-mail: fermineutron@yahoo.com

2007-07-01

Using Monte Carlo methods the spectrum, dose equivalent and ambient dose equivalent of a {sup 239}PuBe at several distances has been determined. Spectrum and both doses, at 100 cm, were determined-experimentally using a Bonner sphere spectrometer. These quantities were obtained by unfolding the spectrometer count rates using artificial neural networks. The dose equivalent, based in the ICRP 21 criteria, was measured with the area neutron dosemeter Eberline model NRI), at 100, 200 and 300 cm. All measurements were carried out in an open space to avoid the room return. With these results it was found that this source has a yield of 8.41E(6) n/s. (Author)

US progress on the development of CR-39 based neutron dosimeters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hadlock, D.E.

1987-06-01

Historically at US nuclear facilities, two types of personnel neutron dosimeters have been in routine use: nuclear track emulsion-Type A (NTA) film and thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD)-albedo. Both of these dosimeters have energy-dependent responses. Therefore, the neutron energy spectra must be known, to interpret the dosimeter results properly. A new state-of-the-art dosimetry system has been developed within the US Department of Energy (US DOE) Personnel Neutron Dosimeter Evaluation and Upgrade Program. This system is called the combination thermoluminescent dosimeter/track etch dosimeter (TLD/TED). This paper briefly describes US DOE research currently being conducted to further enhance the TED portion of the combination TLD/TED system. The research areas involved include dose sensitivity, neutron energy range, specialized radiators, self-developing dosimeters, and neutron spectrometry. 1 fig., 1 tab

An Auto sequence Code to Integrate a Neutron Unfolding Code with thePC-MCA Accuspec

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Darsono

2000-01-01

In a neutron spectrometry using proton recoil method, the neutronunfolding code is needed to unfold the measured proton spectrum to become theneutron spectrum. The process of the unfolding neutron in the existingneutron spectrometry which was successfully installed last year was doneseparately. This manuscript reports that the auto sequence code to integratethe neutron unfolding code UNFSPEC.EXE with the software facility of thePC-MCA Accuspec has been made and run successfully so that the new neutronspectrometry become compact. The auto sequence code was written based on therules in application program facility of PC-MCA Accuspec and then it wascompiled using AC-EXE. Result of the test of the auto sequence code showedthat for binning width 20, 30, and 40 giving a little different spectrumshape. The binning width around 30 gives a better spectrum in mean of givingsmall error compared to the others. (author)

Application of the multisphere technique. Calibration and use of a modified Multiple Probe Detector

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lalande, R.

1966-11-01

The study concerns the search for a portable, compact device with a great autonomy of operation, able to carry out precise measurements of fast neutrons in exclusion zones. A DSM-type multi-probe detector, which is self-contained and fully transistorized, have been studied; it includes a storage battery with a 30 hour autonomy and a buffering capability, a pulse amplifier, an integrator (sensitivity 4 c / s - 200 c / s - 2000 c / s), a totalizer to carry out counting on 5 mm, and a SNR fast neutron probe equipped with its preamplifier. Slightly modified, this device perfectly fulfills the operating conditions. Designed to precisely define the relationship between the flow and the dose intensity, it allows to calibrate any type of fast neutrons detector (e.g. BF 3 or unmodified DSM) that will respond correctly and will provide routine monitoring at a facility

Critical comparison of performances of inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry and neutron activation analysis for the determination of elements in human lungs

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alimonti, A.; Coni, E.; Caroli, S.; Sabbioni, E.; Nicolaou, G.E.; Pietra, R.

1989-01-01

A study was carried out to assess the performance of inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and neutron activation analysis (NAA) techniques for determining reference values for Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mg, Mn, V and Zn in human lungs of urban non-smoking subjects. Experimental data were subjected to the usual basic statistical tests to evaluate the respective merits of the two basically different analytical techniques. Both approaches, if used under carefully optimised experimental conditions, can yield reliable results affected only minimally by systematic and random errors. On the other hand, on a more routine basis, particular attention should be paid to elements such as Al, Cd and V which may pose some problems with both techniques. (author)

Characteristic Investigation of Unfolded Neutron Spectra with Different Priori Information and Gamma Radiation Interference

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kim, Bong Hwan

2006-01-01

Neutron field spectrometry using multi spheres such as Bonner Spheres (BS) has been almost essential in radiation protection dosimetry for a long time at workplace in spite of poor energy resolution because it is not asking the fine energy resolution but requiring easy operation and measurement performance over a wide range of energy interested. KAERI has developed and used extended BS system based on a LiI(Eu) scintillator as the representative neutron spectrometry system for workplace monitoring as well as for the quantification of neutron calibration fields such as those recommended by ISO 8529. Major topics in using BS are how close the unfolded spectra is the real one and to minimize the interference of gamma radiation in neutron/gamma mixed fields in case of active instrument such as a BS with a LiI(Eu) scintillator. The former is related with choosing a priori information when unfolding the measured data and the latter is depend on how to discriminate it in intense gamma radiation fields. Influence of a priori information in unfolding and effect of counting loss due to pile-up of signals for the KAERI BS system were investigated analyzing the spectral measurement results of Scattered Neutron Calibration Fields (SNCF)

Study of neutron spectrometers for ITER

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kaellne, Jan

2005-11-15

A review is presented of the developments in the field of neutron emission spectrometry (NES) which is of relevance for identifying the role of NES diagnostics on ITER and selecting suitable instrumentation. Neutron spectrometers will be part of the ITER neutron diagnostic complement and this study makes a special effort to examine which performance characteristics the spectrometers should possess to provide the best burning plasma diagnostic information together with neutron cameras and neutron yield monitors. The performance of NES diagnostics is coupled to how much interface space can be provided which has lead to an interest to find compact instruments and their NES capabilities. This study assesses all known spectrometer types of potential interest for ITER and makes a ranking of their performance (as demonstrated or projected), which, in turn, are compared with ITER measurement requirements as a reference; the ratio of diagnostic performance to interface cost for different spectrometers is also discussed for different spectrometer types. The overall result of the study is an assessment of which diagnostic functions neutron measurements can provide in burning plasma fusion experiments on ITER and the role that NES can play depending on the category of instrument installed. Of special note is the result that much higher quality diagnostic information can be obtained from neutron measurements with total yield monitors, profile flux cameras and spectrometers when the synergy in the data is considered in the analysis and interpretation.

Spectrum unfolding, sensitivity analysis and propagation of uncertainties with the maximum entropy deconvolution code MAXED

CERN Document Server

Reginatto, M; Neumann, S

2002-01-01

MAXED was developed to apply the maximum entropy principle to the unfolding of neutron spectrometric measurements. The approach followed in MAXED has several features that make it attractive: it permits inclusion of a priori information in a well-defined and mathematically consistent way, the algorithm used to derive the solution spectrum is not ad hoc (it can be justified on the basis of arguments that originate in information theory), and the solution spectrum is a non-negative function that can be written in closed form. This last feature permits the use of standard methods for the sensitivity analysis and propagation of uncertainties of MAXED solution spectra. We illustrate its use with unfoldings of NE 213 scintillation detector measurements of photon calibration spectra, and of multisphere neutron spectrometer measurements of cosmic-ray induced neutrons at high altitude (approx 20 km) in the atmosphere.

$^{11}$Be($\\beta$p), a quasi-free neutron decay?

CERN Document Server

Riisager, K.; Borge, M.J.G.; Briz, J.A.; Carmona-Gallardo, M.; Fraile, L.M.; Fynbo, H.O.U.; Giles, T.; Gottberg, A.; Heinz, A.; Johansen, J.G.; Jonson, B.; Kurcewicz, J.; Lund, M.V.; Nilsson, T.; Nyman, G.; Rapisarda, E.; Steier, P.; Tengblad, O.; Thies, R.; Winkler, S.R.

2014-01-01

We have observed $\\beta$-delayed proton emission from the neutron-rich nucleus $^{11}$Be by analysing a sample collected at the ISOLDE facility at CERN with accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS). With a branching ratio of (8.4 $\\pm$ 0.6)$\\times$ 10$^{-6}$ the strength of this decay mode, as measured by the B$_\\mathrm{GT}$-value, is unexpectedly high. The result is discussed within a simple single-particle model and could be interpreted as a quasi-free decay of the $^{11}$Be halo neutron into a single-proton state.

Comparison of neutron activation analysis with other instrumental methods for elemental analysis of airborne particulate matter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Regge, P. de; Lievens, F.; Delespaul, I.; Monsecour, M.

1976-01-01

A comparison of instrumental methods, including neutron activation analysis, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, atomic absorption spectrometry and emission spectrometry, for the analysis of heavy metals in airborne particulate matter is described. The merits and drawbacks of each method for the routine analysis of a large number of samples are discussed. The sample preparation technique, calibration and statistical data relevant to each method are given. Concordant results are obtained by the different methods for Co, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn. Less good agreement is obtained for Fe, Mn and V. The results are not in agreement for the elements Cd and Cr. Using data obtained on the dust sample distributed by Euratom-ISPRA within the framework of an interlaboratory comparison, the accuracy of each method for the various elements is estimated. Neutron activation analysis was found to be the most sensitive and accurate of the non-destructive analysis methods. Only atomic absorption spectrometry has a comparable sensitivity, but requires considerable preparation work. X-ray fluorescence spectrometry is less sensitive and shows biases for Cr and V. Automatic emission spectrometry with simultaneous measurement of the beam intensities by photomultipliers is the fastest and most economical technique, though at the expense of some precision and sensitivity. (author)

Optimization of the architecture of a neural network in neutron spectrometry to reduce the number of Bonner spheres; Optimizacion de la arquitectura de una red neuronal en espectrometria de neutrones para reducer el numero de esferas Bonner

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Leon P, A. A.; Martinez B, M. R.; Hernandez P, C. F.; Espinoza G, J. G.; Castaneda M, V. H.; Solis S, L. O.; Castaneda M, R.; Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde 801, Col. Centro, 98000 Zacatecas, Zac. (Mexico); Mendez V, R. [Centro de Investigaciones Energeticas, Medioambientales y Tecnologicas, Laboratorio de Patrones Neutronicos, Av. Complutense 22, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Gallego, E. [Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Departamento de Ingenieria Nuclear, ETSI Industriales, Jose Gutierrez Abascal 2, 28006 Madrid (Spain); De Sousa L, M. A. [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear / CNEN, Av. Pte. Antonio Carlos 6627, 31270-901 Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais (Brazil)

2016-10-15

The neutron spectrometry is an experimental process for determining the energy distribution called the Spectrum. Among the methods available for neutron spectrometry, one can mention the Bonner Sphere Spectrometric System as one of the most used, consisting of a detector placed in the center of a set of polyethylene spheres whose diameters range from 2 to 18 inches, however has some disadvantages such as the long periods of time to perform the measurements, the weight and the spheres number that vary according to the system. From this, alternative methods such as artificial neural networks are proposed. For this project neural networks of reverse propagation were used with the methodology of robust design of artificial neural networks, with the aid of a computational tool that maximizes the performance, making the time used for the training s of the network is the smallest possible and thus gets the orthogonal fixes quickly to determine the best network topology. The counting rates of a spectrometric system with 7 spheres, 2 spheres and one sphere of 5 and 8 inches were used. This methodology seeks to reduce the work used as in the spectrometric system formed by a greater number of spheres, since to enter less data in the counting rates to obtain the spectra with 60 energy levels saves time and space, because at having a smaller number of spheres its portability is easier to move from one place to another, for this we performed several experiments with different errors until we reached the optimal error so that the topology of the network was appropriate and find the best design parameters. A statistical software JMP was also used to obtain the best topologies and thus to retrain obtaining its best and worst spectra, in order to determine if the reduction is possible. (Author)

A neutron spectrum unfolding code based on iterative procedures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R.

2012-10-01

In this work, the version 3.0 of the neutron spectrum unfolding code called Neutron Spectrometry and Dosimetry from Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas (NSDUAZ), is presented. This code was designed in a graphical interface under the LabVIEW programming environment and it is based on the iterative SPUNIT iterative algorithm, using as entrance data, only the rate counts obtained with 7 Bonner spheres based on a 6 Lil(Eu) neutron detector. The main features of the code are: it is intuitive and friendly to the user; it has a programming routine which automatically selects the initial guess spectrum by using a set of neutron spectra compiled by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Besides the neutron spectrum, this code calculates the total flux, the mean energy, H(10), h(10), 15 dosimetric quantities for radiation protection porpoises and 7 survey meter responses, in four energy grids, based on the International Atomic Energy Agency compilation. This code generates a full report in html format with all relevant information. In this work, the neutron spectrum of a 241 AmBe neutron source on air, located at 150 cm from detector, is unfolded. (Author)

High resolution studies by Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry of the spatial distribution of tritium in neutron irradiated beryllium pebbles

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rabaglino, E.; Tamborini, G.; Hiernaut, J.-P.; Betti, M.

2006-01-01

A key issue of beryllium as a neutron multiplier in the blanket of future fusion reactors is tritium retention. Models are under development in order to predict tritium release kinetics in the typical operating conditions of the material in the blanket: the absence of experimental data in this range imposes an extrapolation of the models, therefore a detailed characterization and understanding of microscopic diffusion phenomena related to macroscopic tritium release is necessary. It has been recently shown, that the availability of evidence on such phenomena at a scale of 1 micron down to tens of nanometers enables a relevant progress in the effectiveness of model validation: therefore the need for applying and developing advanced analytical techniques based on mass spectrometry at this scale. A study of tritium spatial distribution in neutron irradiated beryllium pebbles (2 mm diameter, 480 appm 4 He, 7 appm 3 H) by means of Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) is presented. Samples in different conditions (non-irradiated, at end of irradiation and at different temperatures during thermal ramp annealing) are examined by an oxygen ion primary beam with a spatial resolution of 1 micron along a diameter. The sample preparation is optimized in order to enable a quantitative comparison among the different conditions. Under an oxygen ion beam tritium is detected in the irradiated samples in a molecular form (3H 2 ), with a continuous distribution inside the grains, which suggests the presence of small clusters in agreement with TEM analyses, and in the form of peaks at grain boundaries, corresponding to large grain boundary bubbles. The evolving of molecular tritium distribution measured by SIMS during a typical thermal ramp release experiment shows precisely tritium diffusion from the centre of the grain to grain boundaries as the temperature increases: at the same time the remaining intragranular tritium inventory, given by the integral of the distribution

Fission Product Yields of 233U, 235U, 238U and 239Pu in Fields of Thermal Neutrons, Fission Neutrons and 14.7-MeV Neutrons

Science.gov (United States)

Laurec, J.; Adam, A.; de Bruyne, T.; Bauge, E.; Granier, T.; Aupiais, J.; Bersillon, O.; Le Petit, G.; Authier, N.; Casoli, P.

2010-12-01

The yields of more than fifteen fission products have been carefully measured using radiochemical techniques, for 235U(n,f), 239Pu(n,f) in a thermal spectrum, for 233U(n,f), 235U(n,f), and 239Pu(n,f) reactions in a fission neutron spectrum, and for 233U(n,f), 235U(n,f), 238U(n,f), and 239Pu(n,f) for 14.7 MeV monoenergetic neutrons. Irradiations were performed at the EL3 reactor, at the Caliban and Prospero critical assemblies, and at the Lancelot electrostatic accelerator in CEA-Valduc. Fissions were counted in thin deposits using fission ionization chambers. The number of fission products of each species were measured by gamma spectrometry of co-located thick deposits.

Advances in passive neutron instruments for safeguards use

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Menlove, H.O.; Krick, M.S.; Langner, D.G.; Miller, M.C.; Stewart, J.E.

1994-01-01

Passive neutron and other nondestructive assay techniques have been used extensively by the International Atomic Energy Agency to verify plutonium metal, powder, mixed oxide, pellets, rods, assemblies, scrap, and liquids. Normally, the coincidence counting rate is used to measure the 240 Pu-effective mass and gamma-ray spectrometry or mass spectrometry is used to verify the plutonium isotopic ratios. During the past few years, the passive neutron detectors have been installed in plants and operated in the unattended/continuous mode. These radiation data with time continuity have made it possible to use the totals counting rate to monitor the movement of nuclear material. Monte Carlo computer codes have been used to optimize the detector designs for specific applications. The inventory sample counter (INVS-III) has been designed to have a higher efficiency (43%) and a larger uniform counting volume than the original INVS. Data analyses techniques have been developed, including the ''known alpha'' and ''known multiplication'' methods that depend on the sample. For scrap and other impure or poorly characterized samples, we have developed multiplicity counting, initially implemented in the plutonium scrap multiplicity counter. For large waste containers such as 200-L drums, we have developed the add-a-source technique to give accurate corrections for the waste-matrix materials. This paper summarizes recent developments in the design and application of passive neutron assay systems

Systematic approach to personnel neutron monitoring

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Griffith, R.V.; Hankins, D.E.

1980-01-01

NTA film and albedo detectors represent the major portion of personnel dosimeters now used for occupational neutron monitoring. However, recent attention to the spectral response of these systems has demonstrated the need for detectors that have a better match to the fields being monitored. Recent developments in direct recoil track etch dosimeters present some intriguing alternatives, and careful use of 237 Np fission fragment detectors offers the advantage of a good dose equivalent spectral match. Work continues on a number of other new detector mechanisms, but problems with sensitivity, energy response, gamma interference, etc., continue to prevent development of most mechanisms into viable personnel dosimeters. Current dosimeter limitations make a systematic approach to personnel neutron monitoring particularly important. Techniques have been developed and tested, using available portable survey instruments, that significantly improve the quality of dosimeter interpretation. Even simple spectrometry can be done with modest effort, significantly improving the health physicists ability to provide accurate neutron monitoring

Determination of U, Th and K in bricks by gamma-ray spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence analysis and neutron activation analysis

Science.gov (United States)

Bártová, H.; Kučera, J.; Musílek, L.; Trojek, T.; Gregorová, E.

2017-11-01

Knowledge of the content of natural radionuclides in bricks can be important in some cases in dosimetry and application of ionizing radiation. Dosimetry of naturally occurring radionuclides in matter (NORM) in general is one of them, the other one, related to radiation protection, is radon exposure evaluation, and finally, it is needed for the thermoluminescence (TL) dating method. The internal dose rate inside bricks is caused mostly by contributions of the natural radionuclides 238U, 232Th, radionuclides of their decay chains, and 40K. The decay chain of 235U is usually much less important. The concentrations of 238U, 232Th and 40K were measured by various methods, namely by gamma-ray spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF), and neutron activation analysis (NAA) which was used as a reference method. These methods were compared from the point of view of accuracy, limit of detection (LOD), amount of sample needed and sample handling, time demands, and instrument availability.

Neutron spectroscopy by means of artificial diamond detectors using a remote read out scheme

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Angelone, M.; Lattanzi, D.; Pillon, M.; Almaviva, S.; Marinelli, M.; Milani, E.; Prestopino, G.; Verona, C.; Verona Rinati, G.; Aielli, G.; Sintonico, R.; Cardarelli, R.

2009-01-01

Artificial crystal diamond neutron detectors have been tested since 2003 and they have demonstrated to be reliable and stable as well as to withstand the harsh working condition available in a large tokamak. Up to now they were used to measure the total and time dependent neutron emission while neutron spectroscopy was never attempted. On the other hand neutron spectrometry con yields important information on the burning plasma and it is requested for future experiments that will use DT plasmas so producing 14 MeV neutrons. Neutron spectrometry can only be attempted by using single crystal diamond (SCD) which, as it has been demonstrated, can show an energy resolution (FWHM) as low as 0.5%. However, in ITER, the huge neutron and gamma fluxes as well as the high temperature will not allow the electronics to be located close to the detector measuring point and near the plasma. For this reason it is necessary to develop a new approach in which new detectors able to withstand harsh environments and the electronics are far apart. This is a very challenging task if it is devoted to perform signal Pulse Height Analyses (PHS) with high energy resolution. To exploit this concept a SCD detector covered with a thin layer of 6 LiF was installed at JET during the 2008 experimental campaigns and equipped with a remote read-out scheme located about 100 m away from the detector. The detector's signal was transported up to a conceptually new fast charge amplifier (FCA) developed to fulfill the task by means of a high frequency, single, low attenuation, super-screened cable. This FCA is able to read, stretch (up to 100 ns) and amplify the small (some μV) and ultra fast (< 100 ps wide) signal produced by the radiation in the diamond detector. The signal amplified by the FCA was then processed through a commercial fast digitizer (NI-5114) 250 Ms/sec, 200 MHz equipped with 64 MB ram memory. Both signal amplitude and area can be used to get a PHS spectrum demonstrating the unique

Determination of fast neutrons energy spectra by Monte-Carlo Method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chetaine, A.

1986-01-01

Two computation codes based on the Monte-Carlo method are established for studying the spectrometry of neutrons with 14 Mev as initial energy. The spectra are determined, on one hand, around a neutron generator Ti-T target and, on the other hand, in a big paraffin cylinder. One code allows to determine the spectrum of neutrons irradiating the sample at various distances from the Ti-T target versus accelerator parameters: high voltage, atomic or molecular nature of deuterons beam, target thickness and materials surrounding the target. The other code determines neutron spectra at various positions inside and outside the 30 x 30 cm paraffin cylinder. The validity of the procedure used in these codes is verified by determining the spectrum of neutrons crossing a big surface, using the procedure in question and using direct simulation method. The biasing procedure used in the two codes permits to have results with good statistics from a reduced number of drawings. 70 figs.; 62 refs.; 1 tab. (author)

Fusion Neutronic Source deuterium endash tritium neutron spectrum measurements using natural diamond detectors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Krasilnikov, A.V.; Kaneko, J.; Isobe, M.; Maekawa, F.; Nishitani, T.

1997-01-01

Two natural diamond detectors (NDDs) operating at room temperature were used for Fusion Neutronics Source (FNS) deuterium endash tritium (DT) neutron spectra measurements at different points around the tritium target and for different deuteron beam energies. Energy resolution of both NDDs were measured, with values 1.95% and 2.8%. Due to the higher energy resolution of one of the two NDDs studied it was possible to measure the shape of the DT neutron energy distribution and its broadening due to deuteron scattering inside the target. The influence of pulse pileup on the energy resolution of the combined system (NDD+electronics) at count rates up to 3.8x10 5 counts/s was investigated. A 3.58% energy resolution for the spectrometric system based on NDD and a 0.25 μs shaping time amplifier has been measured at a count rate of 5.7x10 5 counts/s. It is shown that special development of a fast pulse signal processor is necessary for NDD based spectrometry at count rates of approximately 10 6 counts/s. copyright 1997 American Institute of Physics

Efficiency curves of NIRR-1 gamma-ray spectrometry system at near ...

African Journals Online (AJOL)

The full-energy peak efficiency curves of the gamma-ray spectrometry for use with the Nigeria Research Reactor-1 (NIRR-1) have been determined by both theoretical and experimental at two source-detector positions for routine neutron activation analysis. Standard gamma ray sources were used to determine the efficiency ...

Time lens for high-resolution neutron time-of-flight spectrometers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Baumann, K.; Gaehler, R.; Grigoriev, P.; Kats, E.I.

2005-01-01

We examine in analytic and numeric ways the imaging effects of temporal neutron lenses created by traveling magnetic fields. For fields of parabolic shape we derive the imaging equations, investigate the time magnification, the evolution of the phase-space element, the gain factor, and the effect of finite beam size. The main aberration effects are calculated numerically. The system is technologically feasible and should convert neutron time-of-flight instruments from pinhole to imaging configuration in time, thus enhancing intensity and/or time resolution. Further fields of application for high-resolution spectrometry may be opened

Activation measurements for thermal neutrons. Part E. 36Cl measurements in Germany

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ruehm, Werner; Huber, Thomas; Nolte, Eckehart; Kato, Kazuo; Egbert, Stephen D.

2005-01-01

The long-lived radioisotope 36 Cl (half-life: 301,000 years) was measured in bomb-exposed granite and concrete samples from Hiroshima, and in granite samples not exposed to A-bomb neutrons, by means of accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS). For those samples exposed to A-bomb neutrons, measured 36 Cl/Cl ratios as a function of distance to the epicenter were compared with calculated ratios based on the new dosimetry system DS02. (J.P.N.)

Safety analysis report for the Neutron Multiplier Facility, 329 Building

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rieck, H.G.

1978-09-01

Neutron multiplication is a process wherein the flux of a neutron source such as 252 Cf is enhanced by fission reactions that occur in a subcritical assemblage of fissile material. The multiplication factor of the device depends upon the consequences of neutron reactions with matter and is independent of the initial number of neutrons present. Safe utilization of such a device demands that the fissile material assemblage be maintained in a subcritical state throughout all normal and credibly abnormal conditions. Examples of things that can alter the multiplication factor (and degree of subcriticality) are temperature fluctuations, changes in moderator material such as voiding or composition, addition of fissile materials, and change in assembly configuration. The Neutron Multiplier Facility (NMF) utilizes a multiplier- 252 Cf assembly to produce neutrons for activation analysis of organic and inorganic environmental samples and for on-line mass spectrometry analysis of fission products which diffuse from a stationary fissile target (less than or equal to 4 g fissile material) located in the Neutron Multiplier. The NMF annex to the 329 Building provides close proximity to related counting equipment, and delay between sample irradiation and counting is minimized

Neutron activation analysis, gamma ray spectrometry and radiation environment monitoring instrument concept: GEORAD

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ambrosi, R.M.; Talboys, D.L.; Sims, M.R.; Bannister, N.P.; Makarewicz, M.; Stevenson, T.; Hutchinson, I.B.; Watterson, J.I.W.; Lanza, R.C.; Richter, L.; Mills, A.; Fraser, G.W.

2005-01-01

Geological processes on Earth can be related to those that may have occurred in past epochs on Mars, if analytical methods used on Earth can be operated remotely on the surface of the Red Planet. Nuclear analytical techniques commonly used in terrestrial geology are neutron activation analysis (NAA) and gamma-ray spectroscopy (GRS), which determine the elemental composition, elemental concentration and stratigraphical distribution of water in rocks and soils. We describe a detector concept called GEORAD (GEOlogical and RADiation environment package) for the proposed ExoMars rover within the ESA's Aurora Programme for the exploration of the Solar System. GEORAD consists of a compact neutron source for the NAA of rocks and soils and a GRS. The GRS has a dual role since it can be used for natural radioactivity studies and NAA. A fully depleted silicon detector coupled to neutron sensitive converters measures the solar particle and neutron flux interacting with the Martian surface. We describe how the GEORAD detector suite could contribute to the geological and biological characterisation of Mars both for the detection of extinct or extant life and to evaluate potential hazards facing future manned missions. We show how GEORAD measurements complement the astrobiological objectives of the Aurora programme

The activation method for determining neutron spectra and fluences

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hogel, J.; Vespalec, R.

1980-01-01

3 mm thick foils of 4 and 17 mm in diameter were used for measurements. NaI scintillation detectors 45 mm in diameter by 50 mm thick and 40 mm in diameter by 1 mm thick, and a Ge-Li spectrometer of 53 cm 3 in volume were used for gamma detection. A photopeak or a certain part of the integral spectrum was measured for each radionuclide. Computer code PIKAR was applied in automatic calculation of a simple gamma spectrum obtained using the semiconductor spectrometer. The FACT code was used for calculating foil activity. Codes SAND II and RFSP were used for neutron spectra unfolding. Ge-Li detector spectrometry was used for determining neutron fluence. Code FLUE was used for determining the mean value of neutron flux density and fluence. (J.P.)

Modeling of Plutonium Ionization Probabilities for Use in Nuclear Forensic Analysis by Resonance Ionization Mass Spectrometry

Science.gov (United States)

2016-12-01

masses collide, they form a supercritical mass . Criticality refers to the neutron population within the system. A critical system is one that can...Spectrometry, no. 242, pp. 161–168, 2005. [9] S. Raeder, “Trace analysis of actinides in the environment by means of resonance ionization mass ...first ionization potential of actinide elements by resonance ionization mass spectrometry.” Spectrochimica Acta part B: Atomic Spectroscopy. vol. 52

Proceedings of DAE-BRNS discussion meet on current trends and future perspectives of neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reddy, A.V.R.; Acharya, R.; Nair, A.G.C.; Manchanda, V.K.

2006-01-01

The theme of the meet includes: Development of Neutron Activation Analysis (Naca) methods : k o -based NAA, Chemical NAA, Short-lived NAA, Prompt Gamma ray NAA (PGNAA), Fast neutron NAA using reactor and 14 MeV neutrons, Applications of NAA methods in various fields, Gamma ray spectrometry, An in-sight to data analysis in NAA, Position of NAA in comparison to other Nuclear Analytical Techniques (NATs) and Future perspectives in a panel discussion. Papers relevant to INIS are indexed separately

Neutron-induced reactions on U and Th - A new approach via AMS

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wallner, A.; Capote, R.; Christl, M.; Fifield, L.K.; Srncik, M.; Tims, S.; Hotchkis, M.; Krasa, A.; Lachner, J.; Lippold, J.; Plompen, A.; Semkova, V.; Steier, P.; Winkler, S.

2014-01-01

Recent studies exhibit discrepancies at keV and MeV energies between major nuclear data libraries for 238 U(n,γ), 232 Th(n,γ) and also for (n,xn) reactions. We have extended our initial (n,γ) measurements on 235,238 U to higher neutron energies and to additional reaction channels. Neutron-induced reactions on 232 Th and 238 U were measured by a combination of the activation technique and atom counting of the reaction products using accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS). Natural thorium and uranium samples were activated with quasi-monoenergetic neutrons at IRMM. Neutron capture data were produced for neutron energies between 0.5 and 5 MeV. Fast neutron-induced reactions were studied in the energy range from 17 to 22 MeV. Preliminary data indicate a fair agreement with data libraries; however at the lower band of existing data. This approach represents a complementary method to on-line particle detection techniques and also to conventional decay counting. (authors)

Determination of the fast neutrons spectra by the Elastic scattering method (n, p); Determinacion del espectro de neutrones rapidos por el metodo de la dispersion elastica (n, p)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Elizalde D, J

1973-07-01

This work consists in determining the fast neutron spectra emitted by a Pu-Be isotopic source. The implemented technique is based in the spectrometry (n, p). This consists in making to fall on a fast neutrons beams (polyenergetic) over a thin film of hydrogenated material, detecting the spectra of emitted protons at a fix angle. The polyethylene film and the used solid state detector are inside of a vacuum chamber. The detector is placed at 30 degree with respect to direction of the incident neutrons beam. The protons spectra is stored in a multichannel. the energy is obtained with the prior calibration of the system. The data processing involves the transformation of the protons spectra observed at the falling on neutrons spectra over the film. The energy of the neutrons is related with that of the protons, according to the collision kinematical equations. The cross section of elastic collision of the neutrons with the hydrogen atoms is obtained from literature. Applying these relations to the observed spectra it is obtained the falling on neutron spectra over the film. (Author)

Impact of neutron irradiation on thermal helium desorption from iron

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hu, Xunxiang, E-mail: hux1@ornl.gov [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831 (United States); Field, Kevin G. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831 (United States); Taller, Stephen [University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (United States); Katoh, Yutai [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831 (United States); Wirth, Brian D. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831 (United States); University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 (United States)

2017-06-15

The synergistic effect of neutron irradiation and transmutant helium production is an important concern for the application of iron-based alloys as structural materials in fission and fusion reactors. In this study, we investigated the impact of neutron irradiation on thermal helium desorption behavior in high purity iron. Single crystalline and polycrystalline iron samples were neutron irradiated in HFIR to 5 dpa at 300 °C and in BOR-60 to 16.6 dpa at 386 °C, respectively. Following neutron irradiation, 10 keV He ion implantation was performed at room temperature on both samples to a fluence of 7 × 10{sup 18} He/m{sup 2}. Thermal desorption spectrometry (TDS) was conducted to assess the helium diffusion and clustering kinetics by analyzing the desorption spectra. The comparison of He desorption spectra between unirradiated and neutron irradiated samples showed that the major He desorption peaks shift to higher temperatures for the neutron-irradiated iron samples, implying that strong trapping sites for He were produced during neutron irradiation, which appeared to be nm-sized cavities through TEM examination. The underlying mechanisms controlling the helium trapping and desorption behavior were deduced by assessing changes in the microstructure, as characterized by TEM, of the neutron irradiated samples before and after TDS measurements.

The design of a proton recoil telescope for 14 MeV neutron spectrometry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hawkes, N.P.; Bond, D.S.; Croft, S.; Jarvis, O.N. E-mail: onj@jet.uk; Sherwood, A.C

2002-01-01

As part of the design effort for a 14 MeV neutron spectrometer for the Joint European Torus (JET), computer codes were developed to calculate the response of a proton recoil telescope comprising a proton radiator film mounted in front of a proton detector. The codes were used to optimise the geometrical configuration in terms of efficiency and resolution, bearing in mind the constraints imposed by the proposed application as a JET neutron diagnostic for the Deuterium-Tritium phase. A prototype instrument was built according to the optimised design, and tested with monoenergetic 14 MeV neutrons from the Harwell 500 keV Van de Graaff accelerator. The measured energy resolution and absolute efficiency were found to be in acceptable agreement with the calculations. Based on this work, a multi-radiator production version of the spectrometer has now been constructed and successfully deployed at JET.

The design of a proton recoil telescope for 14 MeV neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hawkes, N.P.; Bond, D.S.; Croft, S.; Jarvis, O.N.; Sherwood, A.C.

2002-01-01

As part of the design effort for a 14 MeV neutron spectrometer for the Joint European Torus (JET), computer codes were developed to calculate the response of a proton recoil telescope comprising a proton radiator film mounted in front of a proton detector. The codes were used to optimise the geometrical configuration in terms of efficiency and resolution, bearing in mind the constraints imposed by the proposed application as a JET neutron diagnostic for the Deuterium-Tritium phase. A prototype instrument was built according to the optimised design, and tested with monoenergetic 14 MeV neutrons from the Harwell 500 keV Van de Graaff accelerator. The measured energy resolution and absolute efficiency were found to be in acceptable agreement with the calculations. Based on this work, a multi-radiator production version of the spectrometer has now been constructed and successfully deployed at JET

A Time of flight spectrometer for measurements of double differential neutron scattering cross sections

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Padron, I.; Dominguez, O.; Sarria, P. Sandin, C.

1996-01-01

The time -of-Flight neutron spectrometry technique by associated particle method was improved using a D-T neutron generator at Laboratory of Nuclear Analysis. This technique was implemented for double differential cross section measurements and supported by the IAEA Project CUB/01/005. An stilbene scintillation detector (dia=100 mm, length=50 mm) was used as principal neutron detector detector and was situated outside a hole in the concrete wall. This way the fligth path was extended and the scattered neutron cone accurate collimated throught the 2 m concrete wall. For the associated particle α detection a thin plastic NE-102 scint illator was used, as well as, two scintilation detectors and a long counter for the neutron flux monitoring. In this TOF neutron spectrometer (3.40 m flight path) a 1.7 nseg. temporal resolution was obtained

Measurement of the neutron spectrum in a room with an accelerator Varian 2300C/D Linac using the Bonner multisphere spectrometer; Medicao do espectro de neutrons em uma sala com um acelerador Varian 2300C/D Linav usando o espectrometro de multiesferas de Bonner

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cavalcante, D.B.S., E-mail: cavalcante@ird.gov.b [Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (IF/UFRJ), RJ (Brazil). Inst. de Fisica; Fonseca, E.S. da, E-mail: evaldo@ird.gov.b [Instituto de Radioprotecao e Dosimetria (IRD/CNEN-RJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil); Lemos Junior, R.M. [Coordenacao dos Programas de Pos-Graduacao de Engenharia (COPPE/UFRJ), RJ (Brazil); Batista, D.V.S. [Instituto Nacional do Cancer (INCa), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil)

2009-07-01

The generated neutron field varies considerably and depends on the beam energy, on the shielding of the accelerator, on the filters for beam homogeneity, and also on the mobile collimators and geometry of irradiation. The estimation of the component relative to the photoneutrons has practical interest for evaluation of the radiological risks for the workers and for the patient as well. Due to the high frequency magnetic field, and to the photon abundance resulting of the escape and scattering at treatment room, those measurements present some difficulties. Measurements of the neutron fields can be made with a Bonner spectrometer. Those system was calibrated with referred neutron standard sources and used for make measurements on a spot of the room where a Variant 2300C/D Linac is installed. The unfolding process used the BUNKI computer code for determination of the neutron spectra at the measurement spot

Application of the coincidence counting technique to DD neutron spectrometry data at the NIF, OMEGA, and Z

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lahmann, B., E-mail: lahmann@mit.edu; Milanese, L. M.; Han, W.; Gatu Johnson, M.; Séguin, F. H.; Frenje, J. A.; Petrasso, R. D. [Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139 (United States); Hahn, K. D.; Jones, B. [Sandia National Laboratory, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87123 (United States)

2016-11-15

A compact neutron spectrometer, based on a CH foil for the production of recoil protons and CR-39 detection, is being developed for the measurements of the DD-neutron spectrum at the NIF, OMEGA, and Z facilities. As a CR-39 detector will be used in the spectrometer, the principal sources of background are neutron-induced tracks and intrinsic tracks (defects in the CR-39). To reject the background to the required level for measurements of the down-scattered and primary DD-neutron components in the spectrum, the Coincidence Counting Technique (CCT) must be applied to the data. Using a piece of CR-39 exposed to 2.5-MeV protons at the MIT HEDP accelerator facility and DD-neutrons at Z, a significant improvement of a DD-neutron signal-to-background level has been demonstrated for the first time using the CCT. These results are in excellent agreement with previous work applied to DT neutrons.

Application of the coincidence counting technique to DD neutron spectrometry data at the NIF, OMEGA, and Z.

Science.gov (United States)

Lahmann, B; Milanese, L M; Han, W; Gatu Johnson, M; Séguin, F H; Frenje, J A; Petrasso, R D; Hahn, K D; Jones, B

2016-11-01

A compact neutron spectrometer, based on a CH foil for the production of recoil protons and CR-39 detection, is being developed for the measurements of the DD-neutron spectrum at the NIF, OMEGA, and Z facilities. As a CR-39 detector will be used in the spectrometer, the principal sources of background are neutron-induced tracks and intrinsic tracks (defects in the CR-39). To reject the background to the required level for measurements of the down-scattered and primary DD-neutron components in the spectrum, the Coincidence Counting Technique (CCT) must be applied to the data. Using a piece of CR-39 exposed to 2.5-MeV protons at the MIT HEDP accelerator facility and DD-neutrons at Z, a significant improvement of a DD-neutron signal-to-background level has been demonstrated for the first time using the CCT. These results are in excellent agreement with previous work applied to DT neutrons.

Application of the coincidence counting technique to DD neutron spectrometry data at the NIF, OMEGA, and Z

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lahmann, B.; Milanese, L. M.; Han, W.; Gatu Johnson, M.; Séguin, F. H.; Frenje, J. A.; Petrasso, R. D.; Hahn, K. D.; Jones, B.

2016-01-01

A compact neutron spectrometer, based on a CH foil for the production of recoil protons and CR-39 detection, is being developed for the measurements of the DD-neutron spectrum at the NIF, OMEGA, and Z facilities. As a CR-39 detector will be used in the spectrometer, the principal sources of background are neutron-induced tracks and intrinsic tracks (defects in the CR-39). To reject the background to the required level for measurements of the down-scattered and primary DD-neutron components in the spectrum, the Coincidence Counting Technique (CCT) must be applied to the data. Using a piece of CR-39 exposed to 2.5-MeV protons at the MIT HEDP accelerator facility and DD-neutrons at Z, a significant improvement of a DD-neutron signal-to-background level has been demonstrated for the first time using the CCT. These results are in excellent agreement with previous work applied to DT neutrons.

Improvements of neutron activation techniques for the determination of fissile material concentrations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Papadopoulos, N.N.

1987-01-01

Certain experimental improvements, as variable sample size and irradiation position, automation and flexibility in radiation detection, broaden the measurable concentration range, increase the possible rate and accuracy of analysis and enlarge the application range of home-made nuclear analyzer for fissile material analysis by delayed fission neutron counting and for short-lived multielement analysis by neutron activation gamma-ray spectrometry. Intercomparisons of results by various methods and laboratories show the need for regular checks of techniques to ensure reliable measurements. (author)

A Time of flight spectrometer for measurements of double differential neutron scattering cross sections; Montaje de un espectrometro por tiempo de vuelo para la medicion de secciones doble diferenciales de dispersion de neutrones

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Padron, I; Dominguez, O; Sarria, P. Sandin, C. [Centro de Estudios Aplicados al Desarrollo Nuclear (CEADEN), La Habana (Cuba)

1996-05-01

The time -of-Flight neutron spectrometry technique by associated particle method was improved using a D-T neutron generator at Laboratory of Nuclear Analysis. This technique was implemented for double differential cross section measurements and supported by the IAEA Project CUB/01/005. An stilbene scintillation detector (dia=100 mm, length=50 mm) was used as principal neutron detector detector and was situated outside a hole in the concrete wall. This way the fligth path was extended and the scattered neutron cone accurate collimated throught the 2 m concrete wall. For the associated particle {alpha} detection a thin plastic NE-102 scint illator was used, as well as, two scintilation detectors and a long counter for the neutron flux monitoring. In this TOF neutron spectrometer (3.40 m flight path) a 1.7 nseg. temporal resolution was obtained.

Experimental validation of GADRAS's coupled neutron-photon inverse radiation transport solver

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mattingly, John K.; Mitchell, Dean James; Harding, Lee T.

2010-01-01

Sandia National Laboratories has developed an inverse radiation transport solver that applies nonlinear regression to coupled neutron-photon deterministic transport models. The inverse solver uses nonlinear regression to fit a radiation transport model to gamma spectrometry and neutron multiplicity counting measurements. The subject of this paper is the experimental validation of that solver. This paper describes a series of experiments conducted with a 4.5 kg sphere of α-phase, weapons-grade plutonium. The source was measured bare and reflected by high-density polyethylene (HDPE) spherical shells with total thicknesses between 1.27 and 15.24 cm. Neutron and photon emissions from the source were measured using three instruments: a gross neutron counter, a portable neutron multiplicity counter, and a high-resolution gamma spectrometer. These measurements were used as input to the inverse radiation transport solver to evaluate the solver's ability to correctly infer the configuration of the source from its measured radiation signatures.

Comparison of two semi-absolute methods. k{sub 0}-instrumental neutron activation analysis and fundamental parameter method X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for Ni-based alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wasim, Mohammad [Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology, Islamabad (Pakistan). Chemistry Div.; Ahmad, Sajjad [Quaid-i-Azam Univ., Islamabad (Pakistan). Dept. of Chemistry

2015-07-01

Nickel based alloys play important role in nuclear, mechanical and chemical industry. Two semi-absolute standardless methods, k{sub 0}-instrumental neutron activation analysis (k{sub 0}-INAA) and fundamental parameter X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (FP-XRF) were used for the characterization of certified nickel based alloys. The optimized experimental conditions for NAA provided results for 18 and XRF for 15 elements. Both techniques were unable to quantify some important alloy making elements. However, both reported results of other elements as information values. The techniques were analyzed for their sensitivity and accuracy. Sensitivity was evaluated by the number of elements determined by each technique. Accuracy was ascertained by using the linear regression analysis and the average root mean squared error.

A neutron spectrum unfolding computer code based on artificial neural networks

Science.gov (United States)

Ortiz-Rodríguez, J. M.; Reyes Alfaro, A.; Reyes Haro, A.; Cervantes Viramontes, J. M.; Vega-Carrillo, H. R.

2014-02-01

The Bonner Spheres Spectrometer consists of a thermal neutron sensor placed at the center of a number of moderating polyethylene spheres of different diameters. From the measured readings, information can be derived about the spectrum of the neutron field where measurements were made. Disadvantages of the Bonner system are the weight associated with each sphere and the need to sequentially irradiate the spheres, requiring long exposure periods. Provided a well-established response matrix and adequate irradiation conditions, the most delicate part of neutron spectrometry, is the unfolding process. The derivation of the spectral information is not simple because the unknown is not given directly as a result of the measurements. The drawbacks associated with traditional unfolding procedures have motivated the need of complementary approaches. Novel methods based on Artificial Intelligence, mainly Artificial Neural Networks, have been widely investigated. In this work, a neutron spectrum unfolding code based on neural nets technology is presented. This code is called Neutron Spectrometry and Dosimetry with Artificial Neural networks unfolding code that was designed in a graphical interface. The core of the code is an embedded neural network architecture previously optimized using the robust design of artificial neural networks methodology. The main features of the code are: easy to use, friendly and intuitive to the user. This code was designed for a Bonner Sphere System based on a 6LiI(Eu) neutron detector and a response matrix expressed in 60 energy bins taken from an International Atomic Energy Agency compilation. The main feature of the code is that as entrance data, for unfolding the neutron spectrum, only seven rate counts measured with seven Bonner spheres are required; simultaneously the code calculates 15 dosimetric quantities as well as the total flux for radiation protection purposes. This code generates a full report with all information of the unfolding in

Application of neutron activation analysis and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to the determination of toxic and essential elements in Australian foods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fardy, J.J.; McOrist, G.D.; Bowles, C.J.; Farrar, Y.J.; Warner, I.M.

1990-01-01

Current Australian legislation specifies the maximum permitted levels of nine toxic elements in foods while the National Health and Medical Research Council (NH and NRC) has listed recommended daily intake figures for seven essential elements. This investigation examined the compliance of Australian foods with both these requirements. Australia-wide samples of representative foods from the diets of Australians were used in this study after the NH and NRC kindly permitted us to join their Market Basket (Noxious Substance) Survey. Both toxic and essential element concentrations in these foods were determined using the advanced analytical techniques of instrumental and radiochemical neutron activation analysis and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. With very few exceptions foods do not exceed the maximum, permitted levels for toxic substances. Daily intake figures for essential elements generally lie close to the maximum recommended values listed by NH and NRC. (author). 11 refs, 22 figs, 17 tabs

Target preparation and neutron activation analysis: a successful story at IRMM

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Robouch, P.; Arana, G.; Eguskiza, M.; Maguregui, M.I.; Pomme, S.; Ingelbrecht, C.

2002-01-01

The main task of a target producer is to make well characterized and homogeneous deposits on specific supports. Alpha and/or gamma spectrometry are traditionally used to monitor the quality of actinide deposits. With the increasing demand for enriched stable isotope targets, other analytical techniques, such as ICP-MS and NAA, are needed. This paper presents the application of neutron activation analysis to quality control of 'thin' targets, 'thicker' neutron dosimeters and 'thick' bronze disks prepared by the Reference Materials Unit at the Institute of Reference Materials and Measurements

Target preparation and neutron activation analysis a successful story at IRMM

CERN Document Server

Robouch, P; Eguskiza, M; Maguregui, M I; Pommé, S; Ingelbrecht, C

2002-01-01

The main task of a target producer is to make well characterized and homogeneous deposits on specific supports. Alpha and/or gamma spectrometry are traditionally used to monitor the quality of actinide deposits. With the increasing demand for enriched stable isotope targets, other analytical techniques, such as ICP-MS and NAA, are needed. This paper presents the application of neutron activation analysis to quality control of 'thin' targets, 'thicker' neutron dosimeters and 'thick' bronze disks prepared by the Reference Materials Unit at the Institute of Reference Materials and Measurements.

Extending and refining the mass surface around $^{208}$Pb by high-precision Penning-trap mass spectrometry with ISOLTRAP

CERN Multimedia

Herfurth, F; Stora, T; Blaum, K; Beck, D; Kowalska, M; Schwarz, S; Stanja, J; Herlert, A J; Yamaguchi, T

We propose high-precision mass spectrometry of nuclides around the doubly magic $^{208}$Pb. On the neutron-rich side, we aim to extend the knowledge of Fr, At, Hg, and Au masses to study the robustness of the N = 126 shell closure and to provide mass data necessary for modeling the rapid-neutron-capture process. On the proton-rich side, we aim at high-resolution mass spectrometry of selected Au, At, and Fr isotopes to verify the predicted existence of very low-lying isomeric states. The proposal will make use of newly-available laser-ionization schemes for Au and At. Finally, the recently implemented multi-reflection time-of-flight mass separator for auxiliary isobaric purification now allows measurements which were not feasible before.

Neutron spectrometry in the temporary storage of waste of the Jose Cabrera (Zorita)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Domingo, C.; Amgarou, K.

2011-01-01

Radiation controls the temporary storage of waste must ensure that the exterior of the same area is classified as open access. Gamma radiation monitors commonly used ensure that this is the case for this type of radiation. The presence of the neutron field associated with the fission of the fuel and the inherent complexity of the neutron dosimetry, in which information is required to assess spectrometric corresponding dosimetric quantities, has led to this season, first in Spain, measures in containers of waste and spent nuclear fuel in the ATT of the Jose Cabrera.

Application of neutron-induced gamma ray spectrometry for in situ assessment of coal quality

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chrusciel, E.; Leutsoa Makhabane, J.

1990-01-01

The physical principles of the spectrometric neutron capture borehole logging method and spectrometric neutron activation borehole logging method are presented. Nuclear parameters of major elemental constituents of coal are given. Statistical multiple correlation results of coal core samples assessment are presented for coal quality parameters. The results of in situ spectrometric measurements in a coal field are also given. 7 figs., 11 tabs., 15 refs. (author)

Helium production by 10 MeV neutrons in iron, nickel and copper

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Haight, R.C.; Kneff, D.W.; Oliver, B.M.; Greenwood, L.R.; Vonach, H.

1994-01-01

Helium production cross sections for the elements Fe, Ni, and Cu and for the isotopes 56 Fe, 58 Ni and 60 Ni have been measured for 10-MeV neutrons. Samples were irradiated with an intense neutron source from the 1 H(t,n) reaction using a rotating gas cell. The generated helium was determined by isotope dilution gas mass spectrometry. Induced radioactivities and known cross sections were used together with calculations based on the source reaction to deduce the neutron fluence at each sample position. The results are in fair agreement with literature values for (n,α) cross sections measured by α-particle detection and integrated over the α-particle energies and angular distributions

Evolutionary neural networks: a new alternative for neutron spectrometry; Redes neuronales evolutivas: una nueva alternativa para la espectrometria de neutrones

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz R, J. M. [Departamento de Electrotecnia y Electronica, Escuela Politecnica Superior, Av. Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004 Cordoba (Spain); Martinez B, M. R.; Vega C, H. R. [Unidad Academica de Estudios Nucleares, Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Cipres 10, Fracc. La Penuela, 98068 Zacatecas (Mexico); Galleo, E. [Departamento de Ingenieria Nuclear, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Jose Gutierrez Abascal 2, 28006 Madrid (Spain)], e-mail: morvymm@yahoo.com.mx

2009-10-15

A device used to perform neutron spectroscopy is the system known as a system of Bonner spheres spectrometer, this system has some disadvantages, one of these is the need for reconstruction using a code that is based on an iterative reconstruction algorithm, whose greater inconvenience is the need for a initial spectrum, as close as possible to the spectrum that is desired to avoid this inconvenience has been reported several procedures in reconstruction, combined with various types of experimental methods, based on artificial intelligence technology how genetic algorithms, artificial neural networks and hybrid systems evolved artificial neural networks using genetic algorithms. This paper analyzes the intersection of neural networks and evolutionary algorithms applied in the neutron spectroscopy and dosimetry. Due to this is an emerging technology, there are not tools for doing analysis of the obtained results, by what this paper presents a computing tool to analyze the neutron spectra and the equivalent doses obtained through the hybrid technology of neural networks and genetic algorithms. The toolmaker offers a user graphical environment, friendly and easy to operate. (author)

Influence of materials and counting-rate effects on 3He neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Evans, A.E.

1984-01-01

The high energy resolution of the Cuttler-Shalev 3 He neutron spectrometer causes spectral measurements with this instrument to be strongly susceptible to artifacts caused by the presence of scattering or absorbing materials in or near the detector or the source, and to false peaks generated by pileup coincidences of the rather long-risetime pulses from the detector. These effects are particularly important when pulse-height distributions vary over several orders of magnitude in count rate versus channel. A commercial pile-up elimination circuit greatly improves but does not eliminate the pileup problem. Previously reported spurious peaks in the pulse-height distributions from monoenergetic neutron sources have been determined to be due to the influence of the iron in the detector wall. 6 references, 9 figures

SWAN - Detection of explosives by means of fast neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gierlik, M.; Borsuk, S.; Guzik, Z.; Iwanowska, J.; Kaźmierczak, Ł.; Korolczuk, S.; Kozłowski, T.; Krakowski, T.; Marcinkowski, R.; Swiderski, L.; Szeptycka, M.; Szewiński, J.; Urban, A.

2016-01-01

In this work we report on SWAN, the experimental, portable device for explosives detection. The device was created as part of the EU Structural Funds Project “Accelerators & Detectors” (POIG.01.01.02-14-012/08-00), with the goal to increase beneficiary's expertise and competencies in the field of neutron activation analysis. Previous experiences and budged limitations lead toward a less advanced design based on fast neutron interactions and unsophisticated data analysis with the emphasis on the latest gamma detection and spectrometry solutions. The final device has been designed as a portable, fast neutron activation analyzer, with the software optimized for detection of carbon, nitrogen and oxygen. SWAN's performance in the role of explosives detector is elaborated in this paper. We demonstrate that the unique features offered by neutron activation analysis might not be impressive enough when confronted with practical demands and expectations of a generic homeland security customer.

Determination of the fast neutrons spectra by the Elastic scattering method (n, p)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Elizalde D, J.

1973-01-01

This work consists in determining the fast neutron spectra emitted by a Pu-Be isotopic source. The implemented technique is based in the spectrometry (n, p). This consists in making to fall on a fast neutrons beams (polyenergetic) over a thin film of hydrogenated material, detecting the spectra of emitted protons at a fix angle. The polyethylene film and the used solid state detector are inside of a vacuum chamber. The detector is placed at 30 degree with respect to direction of the incident neutrons beam. The protons spectra is stored in a multichannel. the energy is obtained with the prior calibration of the system. The data processing involves the transformation of the protons spectra observed at the falling on neutrons spectra over the film. The energy of the neutrons is related with that of the protons, according to the collision kinematical equations. The cross section of elastic collision of the neutrons with the hydrogen atoms is obtained from literature. Applying these relations to the observed spectra it is obtained the falling on neutron spectra over the film. (Author)

Study on neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chung, Yong Sam; Cho, Seung Yeon

1993-01-01

Environmental samples were analyzed quantitatively by neutron activation analysis using high resolution γ-ray spectrometry. The accuracy and precision of the method were checked by the analysis of reference materials, Urban Particulate Matter (NBS SRM 1648) and Coalfly ash (NBS SRM 1633a). Airborne particulates collected for 6 months with low volume air sampler at the outer area of Seoul were analyzed as the start of full scale airborne particulates research. We analyzed 19 trace elements from the samples and the NAA method was confirmed to be utilized for environmental pollution research. (Author)

High energy resolution characteristics on 14MeV neutron spectrometer for fusion experimental reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Iguchi, Tetsuo [Tokyo Univ., Tokai, Ibaraki (Japan). Nuclear Engineering Research Lab.; Takada, Eiji; Nakazawa, Masaharu

1996-10-01

A 14MeV neutron spectrometer suitable for an ITER-like fusion experimental reactor is now under development on the basis of a recoil proton counter telescope principle in oblique scattering geometry. To verify its high energy resolution characteristics, preliminary experiments are made for a prototypical detector system. The comparison results show reasonably good agreement and demonstrate the possibility of energy resolution of 2.5% in full width at half maximum for 14MeV neutron spectrometry. (author)

Development and characterization of a neutron detector based on a lithium glass–polymer composite

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mayer, M.; Nattress, J.; Kukharev, V.; Foster, A.; Meddeb, A. [Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 (United States); Trivelpiece, C. [Materials Research Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 (United States); Ounaies, Z. [Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 (United States); Jovanovic, I., E-mail: ijovanovic@psu.edu [Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 (United States)

2015-06-11

We report on the fabrication and characterization of a neutron scintillation detector based on a Li-glass–polymer composite that utilizes a combination of pulse height and pulse shape discrimination (PSD) to achieve high gamma rejection. In contrast to fast neutron detection in a PSD medium, we combine two scintillating materials that do not possess inherent neutron/gamma PSD properties to achieve effective PSD/pulse height discrimination in a composite material. Unlike recoil-based fast neutron detection, neutron/gamma discrimination can be robust even at low neutron energies due to the high Q-value neutron capture on {sup 6}Li. A cylindrical detector with a 5.05 cm diameter and 5.08 cm height was fabricated from scintillating 1 mm diameter Li-glass rods and scintillating polyvinyltoluene. The intrinsic efficiency for incident fission neutrons from {sup 252}Cf and gamma rejection of the detector were measured to be 0.33% and less than 10{sup −8}, respectively. These results demonstrate the high selectivity of the detector for neutrons and provide motivation for prototyping larger detectors optimized for specific applications, such as detection and event-by-event spectrometry of neutrons produced by fission.

New technique for determination of long-lived radioisotopes, Iodine-129, using multiparameter coincidence spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hatsukawa, Yuichi; Oshima, Masumi; Toh, Yosuke; Shinohara, Nobuo; Kushita, Kosuke; Ueno, Takashi

2003-01-01

Multiparameter coincidence γ-ray spectrometry based on g-g coincidence is widely used in the field of nuclear structure studies, and has produced many successful results. In this study, feasibility of the method for neutron activation analysis of long lived iodine isotope, 129 I, was investigated. (author)

Nuclear radiation detectors using high resistivity neutron transmutation doped silicon

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gessner, T.; Irmer, K.

1983-01-01

A method for the production of semiconductor detectors based on high resistivity n-type silicon is described. The n-type silicon is produced by neutron irradiation of p-type silicon. The detectors are produced by planar technique. They are suitable for the spectrometry of alpha particles and for the pulse count measurement of beta particles at room temperature. (author)

Neutron diffraction technique as a method for material studies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Belhorma, B.; Labrim, H.; Gandou, Z.

2010-01-01

The Morocco's first Nuclear Research has been constructed in CNESTEN. The reactor divergence has been tested, and the nominal power of 2MW was successfully achieved. The reactor has 4 beam ports two of them are projected for neutron scattering. Such technique allows studying the crystallographic and magnetic structures of materials using the thermal neutrons produced in the reactor. the powder diffractometer has been designed. Component reception and installation procedures are in progress. The second experiment consists on small angle neutron scattering that allows the study of soft matter and polymers in the range of 1-50 nm. The third technique that can complete the two previous is the 4-circle neutron spectrometry which is designed mainly to study structural properties of the mono-crystalline material and texture.This technique is complementary to the X-ray diffraction already available in CNESTEN. Some applications of this technique are: --to determine the crystallographic and magnetic structure of polycrystalline materials.-- to study the texture in metals and alloys.-- to perform holography measurement

Double time-of-flight fast neutron spectrometry and study of the reaction Be{sup 9}(n,2n); Spectrometrie de neutrons rapides a double temps de vol et etude de la reaction Be{sup 9}(n,2n)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gondrand, J C [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Grenoble (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1964-10-01

The interaction between 14,5 MeV neutrons and Be{sup 9} was studied by a double time-of-flight method. The energy E{sub 1} and E{sub 2} of the (n,2n) reaction was measured (over all resolution 2 ns, flight path 1,50 m), the two neutrons being in the same plane with incident neutron and the scattering angle 30 degrees (angular resolution 3 degrees): 310 (n,2n) events were identified by electronic method (with photographic control) and by the kinematics (430 'back-ground' events, 1.3*10{sup 11} incident neutrons, one (n,2n) event per hour) corresponding principally (> 90 per cent) to the formation of resonant states between 4 particles (2 {alpha} and 2 neutrons) of the final state: Be{sup 8}(0) {sigma} {approx_equal} 170 mb, Be{sup 8*} (2,9 MeV) {sigma} {approx_equal} 165 mb, Be{sup 9*} (6,76 MeV) Be{sup 8}(0) {sigma} {approx_equal} 95 mb. (author) [French] La reaction Be{sup 9}(n,2n) a ete etudiee avec des neutrons de 14,5 MeV. On a mesure simultanement l'energie E{sub 1} et E{sub 2} par deux temps-de-vol (base-de-vol 1,50 m, resolution totale 2 ns), les deux neutrons etant dans le meme plan de diffusion et a 30 degres du neutron incident (resolution angulaire 3): 310 evenements (n,2n) ont ete identifies a l'aide de criteres electroniques (controles par methode photographique) et de criteres cinematiques (430 evenements parasites et fortuits, 1,3.10{sup 11} neutrons incidents, un evenement reel par heure) et sont principalement (> 90 pour cent) groupes en amas dans un diagramme type Dalitz (plan E{sub 1} E{sub 2}) correspondant aux etats resonnants: Be{sup 8}(0) {sigma} {approx_equal} 170 mb, Be{sup 8*} (2,9 MeV) {sigma} {approx_equal} 165 mb, Be{sup 9*} (6,76 MeV) Be{sup 8}(0) {sigma} {approx_equal} 95 mb.

Certification of a niobium metal reference material for neutron dosimetry (EC-NRM 525)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lievens, F.; Ingelbrecht, C.; Pauwels, J.

1990-01-01

Niobium metal, of 99.98% nominal purity, in the form of 0.02 and 0.1 mm thick foils and of 0.5 mm diameter wire, has been certified for its tantalum mass fraction. The certified value of the tantalum mass fraction is 19.6 ± 1.8 mg.kg -1 and is based on 71 results obtained by six laboratories by neutron activation analysis or inductively coupled plasma source mass spectrometry. The material is intended to be used as a reference material in neutron metrology

A parametric model to describe neutron spectra around high-energy electron accelerators and its application in neutron spectrometry with Bonner Spheres

Science.gov (United States)

Bedogni, Roberto; Pelliccioni, Maurizio; Esposito, Adolfo

2010-03-01

Due to the increased interest of the scientific community in the applications of synchrotron light, there is an increasing demand of high-energy electron facilities, testified by the construction of several new facilities worldwide. The radiation protection around such facilities requires accurate experimental methods to determine the dose due to prompt radiation fields. Neutron fields, in particular, are the most complex to measure, because they extend in energy from thermal (10 -8 MeV) up to hundreds MeV and because the responses of dosemeters and survey meters usually have large energy dependence. The Bonner Spheres Spectrometer (BSS) is in practice the only instrument able to respond over the whole energy range of interest, and for this reason it is frequently used to derive neutron spectra and dosimetric quantities in accelerator workplaces. Nevertheless, complex unfolding algorithms are needed to derive the neutron spectra from the experimental BSS data. This paper presents a parametric model specially developed for the unfolding of the experimental data measured with BSS around high-energy electron accelerators. The work consists of the following stages: (1) Generation with the FLUKA code, of a set of neutron spectra representing the radiation environment around accelerators with different electron energies; (2) formulation of a parametric model able to describe these spectra, with particular attention to the high-energy component (>10 MeV), which may be responsible for a large part of the dose in workplaces; and (3) implementation of this model in an existing unfolding code.

A parametric model to describe neutron spectra around high-energy electron accelerators and its application in neutron spectrometry with Bonner Spheres

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bedogni, Roberto; Pelliccioni, Maurizio; Esposito, Adolfo

2010-01-01

Due to the increased interest of the scientific community in the applications of synchrotron light, there is an increasing demand of high-energy electron facilities, testified by the construction of several new facilities worldwide. The radiation protection around such facilities requires accurate experimental methods to determine the dose due to prompt radiation fields. Neutron fields, in particular, are the most complex to measure, because they extend in energy from thermal (10 -8 MeV) up to hundreds MeV and because the responses of dosemeters and survey meters usually have large energy dependence. The Bonner Spheres Spectrometer (BSS) is in practice the only instrument able to respond over the whole energy range of interest, and for this reason it is frequently used to derive neutron spectra and dosimetric quantities in accelerator workplaces. Nevertheless, complex unfolding algorithms are needed to derive the neutron spectra from the experimental BSS data. This paper presents a parametric model specially developed for the unfolding of the experimental data measured with BSS around high-energy electron accelerators. The work consists of the following stages: (1) Generation with the FLUKA code, of a set of neutron spectra representing the radiation environment around accelerators with different electron energies; (2) formulation of a parametric model able to describe these spectra, with particular attention to the high-energy component (>10 MeV), which may be responsible for a large part of the dose in workplaces; and (3) implementation of this model in an existing unfolding code.

Using TRIGA Mark II research reactor for irradiation with thermal neutrons

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kolšek, Aljaž, E-mail: aljaz.kolsek@gmail.com; Radulović, Vladimir, E-mail: vladimir.radulovic@ijs.si; Trkov, Andrej, E-mail: andrej.trkov@ijs.si; Snoj, Luka, E-mail: luka.snoj@ijs.si

2015-03-15

Highlights: • Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport Code was used to design and perform calculations. • Characterization of the TRIGA Mark II ex-core irradiation facilities was performed. • The irradiation device was designed in the TRIGA irradiation channel. • The use of the device improves the fraction of thermal neutron flux by 390%. - Abstract: Recently a series of test irradiations was performed at the JSI TRIGA Mark II reactor for the Fission Track-Thermoionization Mass Spectrometry (FT-TIMS) method, which requires a well thermalized neutron spectrum for sample irradiation. For this purpose the Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport Code (MCNP5) was used to computationally support the design of an irradiation device inside the TRIGA model and to support the actual measurements by calculating the neutron fluxes inside the major ex-core irradiation facilities. The irradiation device, filled with heavy water, was designed and optimized inside the Thermal Column and the additional moderation was placed inside the Elevated Piercing Port. The use of the device improves the ratio of thermal neutron flux to the sum of epithermal and fast neutron flux inside the Thermal Column Port by 390% and achieves the desired thermal neutron fluence of 10{sup 15} neutrons/cm{sup 2} in irradiation time of 20 h.

CVD polycrystalline diamond. A novel neutron detector and applications

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mongkolnavin, R.

1998-07-01

Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) Polycrystalline Diamond film has been investigated as a low noise sensor for beta particles, gammas and neutrons using High Energy Physics technologies. Its advantages and disadvantages have been explored in comparison with other particle detectors such as silicon detector and other plastic scintillators. The performance and characteristic of the diamond detector have been fully studied and discussed. These studies will lead to a better understanding of how CVD diamonds perform as a detector and how to improve their performance under various conditions. A CVD diamond detector model has been proposed which is an attempt to explain the behaviour of such an extreme detector material. A novel neutron detector is introduced as a result of these studies. A good thermal and fast neutron detector can be fabricated with CVD diamond with new topologies. This detector will perform well without degradation in a high neutron radiation environment, as diamond is known to be radiation-hard. It also offers better neutrons and gammas discrimination for high gamma background applications compared to other semiconductor detectors. A full simulation of the detector has also been done using GEANT, a Monte Carlo simulation program for particle detectors. Simulation results show that CVD diamond detectors with this novel topology can detect neutrons with great directionality. Experimental work has been done on this detector in a nuclear reactor environment and accelerator source. A novel neutron source which offers a fast pulse high-energy neutrons has also been studied. With this detector, applications in neutron spectrometry for low-Z material have been pursued with various neutron detection techniques. One of these is a low-Z material identification system. The system has been designed and simulated for contraband luggage interrogation using the detector and the novel neutron source. (author)

Little Boy neutron spectrum below 3 MeV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Evans, A.E.; Bennett, E.F.; Yule, T.J.

1984-01-01

The leakage neutron spectrum from the Little Boy replica has been measured from 12 keV to 3 MeV using a high-resolution 3 He ionization chamber, and from 1 keV to 3 MeV using proton-recoil proportional counters. The 3 He-spectrometer measurements were made at distances of 0.75 and 2.0 m from the active center and at angles of 0 0 , 45 0 , and 90 0 with respect to the axis of the assembly. Proton-recoil measurments were made at 90 0 to the assembly axis at distances of 0.75 and 2.0 m, with a shielded measurement made at 2.0 m to estimate background due to scattering. The 3 He spectrometer was calibrated at Los Alamos using monoenergetic 7 Li(p,n) 7 Be neutrons to generate a family of response functions. The proton-recoil counters were calibrated at Argonne by studying the capture of thermal neutrons by nitrogen in the counters, by observation of the 24-keV neutron resonance in iron, and by relating to the known hydrogen content of the counters. The neutron spectrum from Little Boy was found to be highly structured, with peaks corresponding to minima in the iron total neutron cross section. In particular, influence of the 24-keV iron window was evident in both sets of spectra. The measurements provide information for dosimetry calculations and also a valuable intercomparison of neutron spectrometry using the two different detector types. Spectra measured with both detectors are in essential agreement. 8 references, 7 figures, 2 tables

Non-destructive assay of 242Pu by resonance neutron capture

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kane, W.R.; Lu, Ming-Shih; Aronson, A.; Forman, L.; Vanier, P.E.

1995-01-01

For the accurate assay of plutonium by neutron correlation measurements, especially for material derived from high-burnup reactor fuel, the content of 242 Pu in a sample must be determined. Since 242 Pu has a long half-life (387,000 yr) and decays to 238 U by alpha particle emission with the accompanying emission of only weak, low-energy gamma rays, gamma-ray spectrometry methods which are ordinarily employed to determine the isotopic composition of a plutonium sample are not feasible for 242 Pu. The existence of a resonance in the neutron capture cross section of 242 Pu at an energy of 2.67 electron volts (eV) with a large (72, 000 barn) cross section affords the possibility for the quantitative assay of this isotope by epithermal neutron capture. Essential for this purpose is an appropriately designed geometry of neutron moderators and absorbers which will provide maximum flux in the eV region while suppressing thermal neutron capture by the fissile plutonium isotopes. Signatures for neutron capture in 242 Pu include the decay of 243 Pu (4.9 hr), prompt capture gamma rays (total energy 5.034 MeV), and the decay of an isomeric state (330 nanosecond). Experiments to determine the feasibility of this approach are currently in progress

SWAN - Detection of explosives by means of fast neutron activation analysis

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gierlik, M., E-mail: m.gierlik@ncbj.gov.pl; Borsuk, S.; Guzik, Z.; Iwanowska, J.; Kaźmierczak, Ł.; Korolczuk, S.; Kozłowski, T.; Krakowski, T.; Marcinkowski, R.; Swiderski, L.; Szeptycka, M.; Szewiński, J.; Urban, A.

2016-10-21

In this work we report on SWAN, the experimental, portable device for explosives detection. The device was created as part of the EU Structural Funds Project “Accelerators & Detectors” (POIG.01.01.02-14-012/08-00), with the goal to increase beneficiary's expertise and competencies in the field of neutron activation analysis. Previous experiences and budged limitations lead toward a less advanced design based on fast neutron interactions and unsophisticated data analysis with the emphasis on the latest gamma detection and spectrometry solutions. The final device has been designed as a portable, fast neutron activation analyzer, with the software optimized for detection of carbon, nitrogen and oxygen. SWAN's performance in the role of explosives detector is elaborated in this paper. We demonstrate that the unique features offered by neutron activation analysis might not be impressive enough when confronted with practical demands and expectations of a generic homeland security customer.

A high-pressure cell for neutron crystal spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Buras, B.; Kofoed, W.; Lebech, B.; Baeckstroem, G.

1977-04-01

Three fixed-scattering-angle methods for neutron scattering powder measurements using double- and triple-axis crystal spectrometers were tested: (1) the analyzer-scan method (AS), (2) the monochromator-scan method (MS), and (3) the monochromator-analyzer scan method (MAS). A high-pressure cell, primarily for use in powder diffraction measurements, with scattering angles of 30 0 , 60 0 , 90 0 and 120 0 and a sample volume of about 0.8 cm 3 was constructed and used in conjunction with the MS and MAS methods. At room temperature, this cell makes it possible to make measurements at pressures up to about 40 kbar and up to about 30 kbar at 300 0 C. The report includes a description of the diffraction methods and of the high-pressure cell. A few examples of experimental results are also given. (Auth.)

Certification of total arsenic in blood and urine standard reference materials by radiochemical neutron activation analysis and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Paul, R.L.; Clay Davis, W.; Lee Yu; Murphy, K.E.; Bryan, C.E.; Vetter, T.W.; Guthrie, W.F.; Leber, D.D.; Gulchekhra Shakirova; Graylin Mitchell

2014-01-01

Radiochemical neutron activation analysis (RNAA) was used to measure arsenic at four levels in standard reference material (SRM) 955c Toxic Elements in Caprine Blood and at two levels in SRM 2668 Toxic Elements in Frozen Human Urine for the purpose of providing mass concentration values for certification. Samples were freeze-dried prior to analysis followed by neutron irradiation for 3 h at a fluence rate of 1 × 10 14 cm -2 s -1 . After sample dissolution in perchloric and nitric acids, arsenic was separated from the matrix either by retention on hydrated manganese dioxide (urine) or by extraction into zinc diethyldithiocarbamate in chloroform (blood). 76 As was quantified by gamma-ray spectroscopy. Differences in chemical yield and counting geometry between samples and standards were monitored by measuring the count rate of a 77 As tracer added before sample dissolution. RNAA results were combined with inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry values from National Institute of Standards and Technology and collaborating laboratories to provide certified values of 10.81 ± 0.54 and 213.1 ± 0.73 μg/L for SRM 2668 Levels I and II, and certified values of 21.66 ± 0.73, 52.7 ± 1.1, and 78.8 ± 4.9 μg/L for SRM 955c Levels II-IV, respectively. Because of discrepancies between values obtained by different methods for SRM 955c Level I, an information value of <5 μg/L was assigned for this material. (author)

Artificial neural network for the determination of neutron spectra in the bunker of a Linac of 18 MV

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Banuelos F, A.; Borja H, C. G.; Valero L, C.; Guzman G, K. A.; Hernandez D, V. M.; Vega C, H. R.

2011-11-01

The neutron spectrum and equivalent of environmental dose H(10) were calculated for a radiotherapy room in 16 punctual detectors, 15 inside of and 1 outside of the same one. The calculations were carried out with the Monte Carlo method and with the code MCNP5 for a generic room model with a Linac of 18 MV, obtaining this way 16 spectra with 47 intervals of energy class, starting from these spectra the values of H(10) were calculated. On the other hand, an artificial neural network was designed and trained to determine the spectra by neutrons in 15 different locations inside the radiotherapy room starting from the value of H(10) in the detector 16 located in the exterior of the room, using as training data the spectra and calculated dose by neutrons, of which a medium quadratic error was obtained (m se) in the adjustment between the objective data and the exit data of m se=1E(-8). The results demonstrate that the use of the artificial intelligence as technique is an useful tool in the spectrometry and dosimetry of neutrons, since it simplifies the characterization process of neutron fields in radiotherapy rooms without the use of spectrometry systems, and that once the energy distribution of the neutrons produced by the Linac is known and the corresponding doses be calculated H(10), they can take the appropriate cautions for the security patient in treatment as well as for the personnel in the room. (Author)

Determination of iodine 129 in vegetables using neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Quintana, Eduardo E.; Thyssen, Sandra M.; Bruno, Hector A.

1999-01-01

The developed methodology allows the determination of iodine 129 in vegetables, using neutron activation analysis. The chemical treatment removes the interferences present in these matrixes, as well as the bromine 82 originated in the activation process. The experimental method for the determination of iodine 129 by neutron activation analysis involves five steps: 1- digestion by alkaline fusion; 2- pre-irradiation purification of iodine 129 by distillation followed by solvent extraction, and adsorption on activated charcoal by distillation; 3- neutron irradiation; 4- post-irradiation purification of iodine 130 by distillation followed by solvent extraction; 5- gamma spectrometry. A chemical recovery of 95 % is obtained in the distillations, measured using iodine 131 as tracer. The whole process recovery is within 70 % and 85 %. The detection limit is 2 mBq/kg of sample, but several factors affect this value, such as type of vegetable, natural iodine concentration, irradiation time and neutron flux. The methodology developed is applied at environmental surveillance with safeguards proposes, in the detection of undeclared reprocessing of irradiated fuel. (authors)

Measurement of the energy spectrum of the neutrons inside the neutron flux trap assembled in the center of the reactor core IPEN/MB-01

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bitelli, Ulysses d' Utra; Mura, Luiz Ernesto Credidio; Santos, Diogo Feliciano dos; Jerez, Rogerio; Mura, Luis Felipe Liamos, E-mail: ubitelli@ipen.br, E-mail: credidiomura@gmail.com [Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil)

2013-07-01

This paper presents the neutron energy spectrum in the central position of a neutron flux trap assembled in the core center of the research nuclear reactor IPEN/MB-01 obtained by an unfolding method. To this end, have been used several different types of activation foils (Au, Sc, Ti, Ni, and plates) which have been irradiated in the central position of the reactor core (setting number 203) at a reactor power level of 64.57 ±2.91 watts . The activation foils were counted by solid-state detector HPGe (gamma spectrometry). The experimental data of nuclear reaction rates (saturated activity per target nucleus) and a neutron spectrum estimated by a reactor physics computer code are the main input data to get the most suitable neutron spectrum in the irradiation position obtained through SANDBP code: a neutron spectra unfolding code that use an iterative adjustment method. The adjustment resulted in 3.85 ± 0.14 10{sup 9} n cm{sup -2} s{sup -1} for the integral neutron flux, 2.41 ± 0.01 10{sup 9} n cm{sup -2} s{sup -1} for the thermal neutron flux, 1.09 ± 0.02 10{sup 9} n cm{sup -2} s{sup -1} for intermediate neutron flux and 3.41± 0.02 10{sup 8} n cm{sup -2} s{sup -1} for the fast neutrons flux. These results can be used to verify and validate the nuclear reactor codes and its associated nuclear data libraries, besides show how much is effective the use of a neutron flux trap in the nuclear reactor core to increase the thermal neutron flux without increase the operation reactor power level. The thermal neutral flux increased 4.04 ± 0.21 times compared with the standard configuration of the reactor core. (author)

Neutron spectrometry with organic scintillation detector; Espectrometria de nuetrones con cristales de centelleo organicos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Butragueno Casdo, J L

1972-07-01

This work describes a fast neutron spectrometer using a stilbene crystal as head detector with pulse shape discrimination (P.S.D.) to reject gamma background. Tre experimental procedure involves the P.S.D., the measurements to calibrate the spectrometer and the corrections for several factors, mainly the non-linear response of the stilbene. Results of the measurements with the reaction D{sup 2}(d,n)He{sup 3}, and with an Am-Be neutron source are presented. It is also presented the measurement of the spectrum of the fast reactor CCRAl-1. (Author) 17 refs.

Investigation of an egyptian phosphate ore sample by neutron activation analysis technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Eissa, E.A.; Aly, R.A.; Rofail, N.B.; Hassan, A.M.

1995-01-01

A domestic phosphate ore sample has been analysed by means of prompt and delayed gamma-ray spectrometry following the activation by thermal neutron capture technique. The rabbit pneumatic transfer system (RPTS), long irradiation facility and two Pu/Be (2,5 Ci each) neutron sources set-Pu for prompt (n,gamma) were applied. The high purity germanium (HPGe) gamma-ray spectrometer with a personal computer analyzer (PCA) system were used for spectrum measurements. Programmes on the VAX computer were utilized for estimating the elemental concentrations of 22 out of 36 elements identified in this work. 2 tabs

Problems and progress in the preparation of sources for the alpha spectrometry of plutonium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Miguel, M.; Deron, S.; Swietly, H.; Heinonen, O.J.

1981-01-01

The interpretation of non-destructive measurements of plutonium materials require more accurate determinations of the isotopic abundance of Pu-238 than conventional chemical assays. The requirements of calorimetry, passive neutron and conventional chemical assays are presented and compared. When Pu-238 is measured by alpha spectrometry, these requirements define how well the plutonium must be separated from americium, and what should be the accuracy of the spectrometry. The latter can strongly depend upon the resolution of the alpha spectrum. The authors describe a procedure to produce sources by drop deposition which ensure a resolution of 17 keV with commercial instrumentation

Response matrix calculation of a Bonner Sphere Spectrometer using ENDF/B-VII libraries

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Morató, Sergio; Juste, Belén; Miró, Rafael; Verdú, Gumersindo [Instituto de Seguridad Industrial, Radiofísica y Medioambiental (ISIRYM), Universitat Politècnica de València (Spain); Guardia, Vicent, E-mail: bejusvi@iqn.upv.es [GD Energy Services, Valencia (Spain). Grupo dominguis

2017-07-01

The present work is focused on the reconstruction of a neutron spectra using a multisphere spectrometer also called Bonner Spheres System (BSS). To that, the determination of the response detector curves is necessary therefore we have obtained the response matrix of a neutron detector by Monte Carlo (MC) simulation with MCNP6 where the use of unstructured mesh geometries is introduced as a novelty. The aim of these curves was to study the theoretical response of a widespread neutron spectrometer exposed to neutron radiation. A neutron detector device has been used in this work which is formed by a multispheres spectrometer (BSS) that uses 6 high density polyethylene spheres with different diameters. The BSS consists of a set of 0.95 g/cm{sup 3} high density polyethylene spheres. The detector is composed of a lithium iodide 6LiI cylindrical scintillator crystal 4mm x 4mm size LUDLUM Model 42 coupled to a photomultiplier tube. Thermal tables are required to include polyethylene cross section in the simulation. These data are essential to get correct and accurate results in problems involving neutron thermalization. Nowadays available literature present the response matrix calculated with ENDF.B.V cross section libraries (V.Mares et al 1993) or with ENDF.B.VI (R.Vega Carrillo et al 2007). This work uses two novelties to calculate the response matrix. On the one hand the use of unstructured meshes to simulate the geometry of the detector and the Bonner Spheres and on the other hand the use of the updated ENDF.B.VII cross sections libraries. A set of simulations have been performed to obtain the detector response matrix. 29 mono energetic neutron beams between 10 KeV to 20 MeV were used as source for each moderator sphere up to a total of 174 simulations. Each mono energetic source was defined with the same diameter as the moderating sphere used in its corresponding simulation and the spheres were uniformly irradiated from the top of the photomultiplier tube. Some

Neutron radiation field due to 6.6 MeV/amu 58Ni ions bombarding a thick Cu target

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aleinikov, V.E.; Cherevatenko, A.P.; Clapier, F.B.; Tsovbun, V.I.

1985-01-01

The angular distribution of the dose equivalent rate and neutron spectra were obtained using the Bonner sphere spectrometry method. The quality factor was measured by a tissue-equivalent Rem-2 chamber at several angles. The agreement between the results of the measurements and an empirical parameterisation of the angular distribution is satisfactory. The total yield is estimated to be 1.6+-0.4x10 -3 neutrons per heavy ion. (author)

Measurement of thermal, epithermal and fast neutron flux in the IEA-R1 reactor by the foil activation method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Koskinas, M.F.

1979-01-01

Experimental and theoretical details of the foil activation method applied to neutrons flux measurements at the IEA-R1 reactor are presented. The thermal - and epithermal - neutron flux were determined form activation measurements of gold, cobalt and manganese foils; and for the fast neutron flux determination, aluminum, iron and nickel foils were used. The measurements of the activity induced in the metal foils were performed using a Ge-Li gamma spectrometry system. In each energy range of the reactor neutron spectrum, the agreement among the experimental flux values obtained using the three kind of materials, indicates the consistency of the theoretical approach and of the nuclear parameters selected. (Author) [pt

Self-shielding and burn-out effects in the irradiation of strongly-neutron-absorbing material

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sekine, T.; Baba, H.

1978-01-01

Self-shielding and burn-out effects are discussed in the evaluation of radioisotopes formed by neutron irradiation of a strongly-neutron-absorbing material. A method of the evaluation of such effects is developed both for thermal and epithermal neutrons. Gadolinium oxide uniformly mixed with graphite powder was irradiated by reactor-neutrons together with pieces of a Co-Al alloy wire (the content of Co being 0.475%) as the neutron flux monitor. The configuration of the samples and flux monitors in each of two irradiations is illustrated. The yields of activities produced in the irradiated samples were determined by the γ-spectrometry with a Ge(Li) detector of a relative detection efficiency of 8%. Activities at the end of irradiation were estimated by corrections due to pile-up, self-absorption, detection efficiency, branching ratio, and decay of the activity. Results of the calculation are discussed in comparison with the observed yields of 153 Gd, 160 Tb, and 161 Tb for the case of neutron irradiation of disc-shaped targets of gadolinium oxide. (T.G.)

Production of neutrons up to 18 MeV in high-intensity, short-pulse laser matter interactions

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Higginson, D. P. [Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093 (United States); Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, California 94440 (United States); McNaney, J. M.; Swift, D. C.; Mackinnon, A. J.; Patel, P. K. [Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, California 94440 (United States); Petrov, G. M.; Davis, J. [Naval Research Laboratory, Plasma Physics Division, Washington, DC 20375 (United States); Frenje, J. A. [Plasma Science and Fusion Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139 (United States); Jarrott, L. C.; Tynan, G.; Beg, F. N. [Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093 (United States); Kodama, R.; Nakamura, H. [Institute of Laser Engineering, Osaka University, 2-5 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 454-0871 (Japan); Lancaster, K. L. [STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Chilton, Oxon OX11OQX (United Kingdom)

2011-10-15

The generation of high-energy neutrons using laser-accelerated ions is demonstrated experimentally using the Titan laser with 360 J of laser energy in a 9 ps pulse. In this technique, a short-pulse, high-energy laser accelerates deuterons from a CD{sub 2} foil. These are incident on a LiF foil and subsequently create high energy neutrons through the {sup 7}Li(d,xn) nuclear reaction (Q = 15 MeV). Radiochromic film and a Thomson parabola ion-spectrometer were used to diagnose the laser accelerated deuterons and protons. Conversion efficiency into protons was 0.5%, an order of magnitude greater than into deuterons. Maximum neutron energy was shown to be angularly dependent with up to 18 MeV neutrons observed in the forward direction using neutron time-of-flight spectrometry. Absolutely calibrated CR-39 detected spectrally integrated neutron fluence of up to 8 x 10{sup 8} n sr{sup -1} in the forward direction.

Characterisation of an accelerator-based neutron source for BNCT versus beam energy

Science.gov (United States)

Agosteo, S.; Curzio, G.; d'Errico, F.; Nath, R.; Tinti, R.

2002-01-01

Neutron capture in 10B produces energetic alpha particles that have a high linear energy transfer in tissue. This results in higher cell killing and a higher relative biological effectiveness compared to photons. Using suitably designed boron compounds which preferentially localize in cancerous cells instead of healthy tissues, boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) has the potential of providing a higher tumor cure rate within minimal toxicity to normal tissues. This clinical approach requires a thermal neutron source, generally a nuclear reactor, with a fluence rate sufficient to deliver tumorcidal doses within a reasonable treatment time (minutes). Thermal neutrons do not penetrate deeply in tissue, therefore BNCT is limited to lesions which are either superficial or otherwise accessible. In this work, we investigate the feasibility of an accelerator-based thermal neutron source for the BNCT of skin melanomas. The source was designed via MCNP Monte Carlo simulations of the thermalization of a fast neutron beam, generated by 7 MeV deuterons impinging on a thick target of beryllium. The neutron field was characterized at several deuteron energies (3.0-6.5 MeV) in an experimental structure installed at the Van De Graaff accelerator of the Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro, in Italy. Thermal and epithermal neutron fluences were measured with activation techniques and fast neutron spectra were determined with superheated drop detectors (SDD). These neutron spectrometry and dosimetry studies indicated that the fast neutron dose is unacceptably high in the current design. Modifications to the current design to overcome this problem are presented.

Method Comparison of Neutron Activation Analysis and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry for Determination of Zinc in Food Samples

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Endah Damastuti; Syukria Kurniawati; Natalia Adventini

2009-01-01

Zinc as a micro nutrient, has important roles in human metabolism system. It is required by the body in appropriate amount from food intake. Due to the very low concentration of Zinc in food, high selectivity and sensitivity analysis technique is required for the determination, such as Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). In this experiment, both methods were compared in zinc analysis of food samples. The subject of this experiment is to examine of those methods conformity and improving the technique capability in zinc analysis in food sample. Those methods were validated by analyzing zinc in SRM NIST 1548a Typical Diet and were tested its accuracy and precision. The results of Zn concentration were 25.1 ± 2.14 mg/kg by NAA and 24.1 ± 1.40 mg/kg by AAS while the certificate value was 24.6 ± 1.80 mg/kg. Percentage of relative bias, %CV, μ-test score and HORRAT(Horwitz ratio) value given by NAA were 2%, 8.5%, 0.18 and 0.9 respectively, while %relative bias, %CV, μ-test score and HORRAT value given by AAS were 2%, 5.8 %, 0.20 and 0.6 respectively. The result obtained for Zn concentration in various food samples by NAA and AAS were varied from 13.7 – 29.3 mg/kg with mean value 19.8 mg/kg and 11.2 – 26.0 mg/kg with mean value 17.3 mg/kg (author)

High Conduction Neutron Absorber to Simulate Fast Reactor Environment in an Existing Test Reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Guillen, Donna; Greenwood, Lawrence R.; Parry, James

2014-06-22

A need was determined for a thermal neutron absorbing material that could be cooled in a gas reactor environment without using large amounts of a coolant that would thermalize the neutron flux. A new neutron absorbing material was developed that provided high conduction so a small amount of water would be sufficient for cooling thereby thermalizing the flux as little as possible. An irradiation experiment was performed to assess the effects of radiation and the performance of a new neutron absorbing material. Neutron fluence monitors were placed inside specially fabricated holders within a set of drop-in capsules and irradiated for up to four cycles in the Advanced Test Reactor. Following irradiation, the neutron fluence monitor wires were analyzed by gamma and x-ray spectrometry to determine the activities of the activation products. The adjusted neutron fluences were calculated and grouped into three bins – thermal, epithermal and fast to evaluate the spectral shift created by the new material. Fluence monitors were evaluated after four different irradiation periods to evaluate the effects of burn-up in the absorbing material. Additionally, activities of the three highest activity isotopes present in the specimens are given.

Certification of a niobium metal reference material for neutron dosimetry (EC nuclear reference material 526)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ingelbrecht, C.; Pauwels, J.

1990-01-01

Niobium metal, of 99.999% nominal purity, in the form of 0.02 and 0.1 mm thick foil and of 0.5 mm diameter wire, has been certified for its tantalum mass fraction. The certified value of the tantalum mass fraction is 0.3 ± 0.09 mg. Kg -1 , and is based on 70 results obtained by six independent laboratories by neutron activation analysis or inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The material is intended to be used as a reference material in neutron metrology

Activation Measurements for Thermal Neutrons, U.S. Measurements of 36Cl in Mineral Samples from Hiroshima and Nagasaki; and Measurement of 63 Ni in Copper Samples From Hiroshima by Accelerator Mass Spectrometry

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tore Straume; Alfredo A. Marchetti; Stephen D. Egbert; James A. Roberts; Ping Men; Shoichiro Fujita; Kiyoshi Shizuma; Masaharu Hoshi; G. Rugel; W. Ruhm; G. Korschinek; J. E. McAninch; K. L. Carroll; T. Faestermann; K. Knie; R. E. Martinelli; A. Wallner; C. Wallner

2005-01-14

The present paper presents the {sup 36}Cl measurement effort in the US. A large number of {sup 36}Cl measurements have been made in both granite and concrete samples obtained from various locations and distances in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. These measurements employed accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) to quantify the number of atoms of {sup 36}Cl per atom of total Cl in the sample. Results from these measurements are presented here and discussed in the context of the DS02 dosimetry reevaluation effort for Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic-bomb survivors. The production of {sup 36}Cl by bomb neutrons in mineral samples from Hiroshima and Nagasaki was primarily via the reaction {sup 35}Cl(n,{gamma}){sup 36}Cl. This reaction has a substantial thermal neutron cross-section (43.6 b at 0.025 eV) and the product has a long half-life (301,000 y). hence, it is well suited for neutron-activation detection in Hiroshima and Nagasaki using AMS more than 50 years after the bombings. A less important reaction for bomb neutrons, {sup 39}K(n,{alpha}){sup 36}Cl, typically produces less than 10% of the {sup 36}Cl in mineral samples such as granite and concrete, which contain {approx} 2% potassium. In 1988, only a year after the publication of the DS86 final report (Roesch 1987), it was demonstrated experimentally that {sup 36}Cl measured using AMS should be able to detect the thermal neutron fluences at the large distances most relevant to the A-bomb survivor dosimetry. Subsequent measurements in mineral samples from both Hiroshima and Nagasaki validated the experimental findings. The potential utility of {sup 36}Cl as a thermal neutron detector in Hiroshima was first presented by Haberstock et al. who employed the Munich AMS facility to measure {sup 36}Cl/Cl ratios in a gravestone from near the hypocenter. That work subsequently resulted in an expanded {sup 36}Cl effort in Germany that paralleled the US work. More recently, there have also been {sup 36}Cl measurements made by a Japanese

Reactor neutron activation analysis for aluminium in the presence of phosphorus and silicon

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mizumoto, Yoshihiko; Iwata, Shiro; Sasajima, Kazuhisa; Yoshimasu, Fumio; Yase, Yoshiro.

1984-01-01

Reactor neutron activation analysis for aluminium in samples containing phosphorus and silicon was studied. The experiments were performed by using neumatic tube of the Kyoto University Reactor (KUR). At first, the ratios of the 28 Al activity produced from 27 Al(n, γ) 28 Al reaction by thermal neutrons to that from 31 P(n, α) 28 Al reaction by fast neutrons, and to that from 28 Si(n, p) 28 Al reaction were measured by γ-ray spectrometry. With a ratio of about 5 for the thermal to fast neutron flux of KUR, the ratio of the 28 Al activity from aluminium to that from phosphorus was to be 812 +- 7, and to that from silicon 282 +- 3. Secondly, the contributions of 28 Al activities from phosphorus and silicon and the determination limit of aluminium were calculated for various parameters, such as fast neutron flux, thermal to fast neutron flux ratio, amounts of phosphorus and silicon, etc. Thirdly, on the basis of these results, aluminium contents in spinal cords and brains of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinsonism-dementia complex and control cases were determined. (author)

A Bayesian method to estimate the neutron response matrix of a single crystal CVD diamond detector

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reginatto, Marcel; Araque, Jorge Guerrero; Nolte, Ralf; Zbořil, Miroslav; Zimbal, Andreas; Gagnon-Moisan, Francis

2015-01-01

Detectors made from artificial chemical vapor deposition (CVD) single crystal diamond are very promising candidates for applications where high resolution neutron spectrometry in very high neutron fluxes is required, for example in fusion research. We propose a Bayesian method to estimate the neutron response function of the detector for a continuous range of neutron energies (in our case, 10 MeV ≤ E n ≤ 16 MeV) based on a few measurements with quasi-monoenergetic neutrons. This method is needed because a complete set of measurements is not available and the alternative approach of using responses based on Monte Carlo calculations is not feasible. Our approach uses Bayesian signal-background separation techniques and radial basis function interpolation methods. We present the analysis of data measured at the PTB accelerator facility PIAF. The method is quite general and it can be applied to other particle detectors with similar characteristics

Calculations of neutron spectra after neutron-neutron scattering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Crawford, B E [Gettysburg College, Box 405, Gettysburg, PA 17325 (United States); Stephenson, S L [Gettysburg College, Box 405, Gettysburg, PA 17325 (United States); Howell, C R [Duke University and Triangle Universities Nuclear Laboratory, Durham, NC 27708-0308 (United States); Mitchell, G E [North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-8202 (United States); Tornow, W [Duke University and Triangle Universities Nuclear Laboratory, Durham, NC 27708-0308 (United States); Furman, W I [Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, 141980 Dubna (Russian Federation); Lychagin, E V [Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, 141980 Dubna (Russian Federation); Muzichka, A Yu [Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, 141980 Dubna (Russian Federation); Nekhaev, G V [Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, 141980 Dubna (Russian Federation); Strelkov, A V [Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, 141980 Dubna (Russian Federation); Sharapov, E I [Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, 141980 Dubna (Russian Federation); Shvetsov, V N [Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, 141980 Dubna (Russian Federation)

2004-09-01

A direct neutron-neutron scattering length, a{sub nn}, measurement with the goal of 3% accuracy (0.5 fm) is under preparation at the aperiodic pulsed reactor YAGUAR. A direct measurement of a{sub nn} will not only help resolve conflicting results of a{sub nn} by indirect means, but also in comparison to the proton-proton scattering length, a{sub pp}, shed light on the charge-symmetry of the nuclear force. We discuss in detail the analysis of the nn-scattering data in terms of a simple analytical expression. We also discuss calibration measurements using the time-of-flight spectra of neutrons scattered on He and Ar gases and the neutron activation technique. In particular, we calculate the neutron velocity and time-of-flight spectra after scattering neutrons on neutrons and after scattering neutrons on He and Ar atoms for the proposed experimental geometry, using a realistic neutron flux spectrum-Maxwellian plus epithermal tail. The shape of the neutron spectrum after scattering is appreciably different from the initial spectrum, due to collisions between thermal-thermal and thermal-epithermal neutrons. At the same time, the integral over the Maxwellian part of the realistic scattering spectrum differs by only about 6 per cent from that of a pure Maxwellian nn-scattering spectrum.

Neutron activation analysis with k0-standardisation : general formalism and procedure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pomme, S.; Hardeman, F.; Robouch, P.; Etxebarria, N.; Arana, G.

1997-09-01

Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) with k 0 -standardisation is a powerful tool for multi-element analysis at a broad range of trace element concentrations. An overview is given of the basic principles, fundamental equations, and general procedure of this method. Different aspects of the description of the neutron activation reaction rate are discussed, applying the Hogdahl convention. A general activation-decay formula is derived and its application to INAA is demonstrated. Relevant k 0 -definitions for different activation decay schemes are summarised and upgraded to cases of extremely high fluxes. The main standardisation techniques for INAA are discussed, emphasizing the k 0 -standardisation. Some general aspects of the basic equipment and its calibration are discussed, such as the characterisation of the neutron field and the tuning of the spectrometry part. A method for the prediction and optimisation of the analytical performance of INAA is presented

Neutron spectrometry and dosimetry with neural networks and Bonner spheres: a study to reduce the spheres number; Espectrometria y dosimetria neutronica con redes neuronales y esferas Bonner: un estudio para reducir el numero de esferas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Espinoza G, J. G.; Martinez B, M. R.; Leon P, A. A.; Hernandez P, C. F.; Castaneda M, V. H.; Solis S, L. O.; Castaneda M, R.; Ortiz R, J. M.; Vega C, H. R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Av. Ramon Lopez Velarde 801, Col. Centro, 98000 Zacatecas, Zac. (Mexico); Mendez, R. [Centro de Investigaciones Energeticas, Medioambientales y Tecnologicas, Laboratorio de Patrones Neutronicos, Av. Complutense 22, 28040 Madrid (Spain); Gallego, E. [Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Departamento de Ingenieria Nuclear, C. Jose Gutierrez Abascal 2, 28006 Madrid (Spain); De Sousa L, M. A. [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear / CNEN, Av. Pte. Antonio Carlos 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil)

2016-10-15

For neutron spectrometry and neutron dosimetry, the Bonner spheres spectrometric system has been the most widely used system, however, the number, size and weight of the spheres composing the system, as well as the need to use a reconstruction code and the long periods of time used to carry out the measurements are some of the disadvantages of this system. For the reconstruction of the spectra, different techniques such as artificial neural networks of reverse propagation have been used. The objective of this work was to reduce the number of Bonner spheres and to use counting speeds in a reverse propagation neural network, optimized by means of the robust design methodology, to reconstruct the neutron spectra. For the design of the neural network we used the neutron spectra of the IAEA and the response matrix of the Bonner spheres with {sup 6}LiI(Eu) detector. The performance of the network was compared; using 7 Bonner spheres against other cases where only 2 and one sphere are used. The network topologies were trained 36 times for each case keeping constant the objective error (1E(-3)), the training algorithm was trains cg and the robust design methodology to determine the best network architectures. With these, the best and worst results were compared. The results obtained using 7 spheres were similar to those with the 5-in sphere, however is still in an information analysis stage. (Author)

A compact neutron spectrometer for characterizing inertial confinement fusion implosions at OMEGA and the NIF.

Science.gov (United States)

Zylstra, A B; Gatu Johnson, M; Frenje, J A; Séguin, F H; Rinderknecht, H G; Rosenberg, M J; Sio, H W; Li, C K; Petrasso, R D; McCluskey, M; Mastrosimone, D; Glebov, V Yu; Forrest, C; Stoeckl, C; Sangster, T C

2014-06-01

A compact spectrometer for measurements of the primary deuterium-tritium neutron spectrum has been designed and implemented on the OMEGA laser facility [T. Boehly et al., Opt. Commun. 133, 495 (1997)]. This instrument uses the recoil spectrometry technique, where neutrons produced in an implosion elastically scatter protons in a plastic foil, which are subsequently detected by a proton spectrometer. This diagnostic is currently capable of measuring the yield to ~±10% accuracy, and mean neutron energy to ~±50 keV precision. As these compact spectrometers can be readily placed at several locations around an implosion, effects of residual fuel bulk flows during burn can be measured. Future improvements to reduce the neutron energy uncertainty to ±15-20 keV are discussed, which will enable measurements of fuel velocities to an accuracy of ~±25-40 km/s.

Neutron spectrometry by means of threshold detectors - Neutron spectrometry by means of activation detectors. Studies of the method of approximation by polygonal function. Application to dose determination

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bricka, M.

1962-03-01

This report addresses the problem of determination of neutron spectrum by using a set of detectors. The spectrum approximation method based on a polygonal function is more particularly studied. The author shows that the coefficients of the usual mathematical model can be simply formulated and assessed. The study of spectra approximation by a polygonal function shows that dose can be expressed by a linear function of the activity of the different detectors [fr

An analysis of nuclear fuel burnup in the AGR-1 TRISO fuel experiment using gamma spectrometry, mass spectrometry, and computational simulation techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Harp, Jason M.; Demkowicz, Paul A.; Winston, Philip L.; Sterbentz, James W.

2014-01-01

Highlights: • The burnup of irradiated AGR-1 TRISO fuel was analyzed using gamma spectrometry. • The burnup of irradiated AGR-1 TRISO fuel was also analyzed using mass spectrometry. • Agreement between experimental results and neutron physics simulations was excellent. - Abstract: AGR-1 was the first in a series of experiments designed to test US TRISO fuel under high temperature gas-cooled reactor irradiation conditions. This experiment was irradiated in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and is currently undergoing post-irradiation examination (PIE) at INL and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. One component of the AGR-1 PIE is the experimental evaluation of the burnup of the fuel by two separate techniques. Gamma spectrometry was used to non-destructively evaluate the burnup of all 72 of the TRISO fuel compacts that comprised the AGR-1 experiment. Two methods for evaluating burnup by gamma spectrometry were developed, one based on the Cs-137 activity and the other based on the ratio of Cs-134 and Cs-137 activities. Burnup values determined from both methods compared well with the values predicted from simulations. The highest measured burnup was 20.1% FIMA (fissions per initial heavy metal atom) for the direct method and 20.0% FIMA for the ratio method (compared to 19.56% FIMA from simulations). An advantage of the ratio method is that the burnup of the cylindrical fuel compacts can be determined in small (2.5 mm) axial increments and an axial burnup profile can be produced. Destructive chemical analysis by inductively coupled mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was then performed on selected compacts that were representative of the expected range of fuel burnups in the experiment to compare with the burnup values determined by gamma spectrometry. The compacts analyzed by mass spectrometry had a burnup range of 19.3% FIMA to 10.7% FIMA. The mass spectrometry evaluation of burnup for the four compacts agreed well with the gamma

Biological dosimetry studies for boron neutron capture therapy at the RA-1 research reactor facility

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Trivillin, Veronica A.; Heber, Elisa M.; Itoiz, Maria E.; Schwint, Amanda E.; Castillo, Jorge

2004-01-01

Initial physical dosimetry measurements have been completed using activation spectrometry and thermoluminescent dosimeters to characterize the BNCT facility developed at the RA-1 research reactor operated by the National Atomic Energy Commission in Buenos Aires. Biological dosimetry was performed employing the hamster cheek pouch oral cancer model previously validated for BNCT studies by our group. Results indicate that the RA-1 neutron source produces useful dose rates for BNCT studies but that some improvements in the initial configuration will be needed to optimize the spectrum for thermal-neutron BNCT research applications. (author)

Neutron activation analysis of rare earths and some other elements in material of geochemical interest

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brunfelt, A.O.

1975-01-01

ngle-element methods for the determination by neutron activation analysis of antimony, chromium, phosphorus, selenium and silver in international geochemical standard rocks, and the determination of rare earth elements i in standard rocks and apatites are described and discussed in twelve previously published papers, and in an eighteen page summary. Chemical separationtechniques are also discussed and the results are compared with previously obtained results with the same standard rocks. The accuracy of neutron activation analysis is discussed in comparison with isotope dilution mass spectroscopy, atomic absorption, gas chromatography and spark source mass spectrometry. (JIW)

Neutron Spectrum Measurements from Irradiations at NCERC

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jackman, Kevin Richard [Los Alamos National Lab. (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States); Mosby, Michelle A. [Los Alamos National Lab. (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States); Bredeweg, Todd Allen [Los Alamos National Lab. (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States); Hutchens, Gregory Joe [Los Alamos National Lab. (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States); White, Morgan Curtis [Los Alamos National Lab. (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)

2015-04-15

Several irradiations have been conducted on assemblies (COMET/ZEUS and Flattop) at the National Criticality Experiments Research Center (NCERC) located at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS). Configurations of the assemblies and irradiated materials changed between experiments. Different metallic foils were analyzed using the radioactivation method by gamma-ray spectrometry to understand/characterize the neutron spectra. Results of MCNP calculations are shown. It was concluded that MCNP simulated spectra agree with experimental measurements, with the caveats that some data are limited by statistics at low-energies and some activation foils have low activities.

The development of a spectrometer for 14 MeV neutrons from fusion

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aronsson, D.

1991-01-01

A spectrometer for 14 MeV neutrons, to be used for fusion plasma diagnostics at JET, was developed. The spectrometer utilizes neutron scattering in a polyethylene foil with the detection of the scattered neutron and its associated recoil proton. For the detection of 12 MeV protons we have tested silicon surface barrier detectors, lithium-drifted silicon detectors and high purity germanium detectors. The lithium-drifted detectors were finally selected for use in the spectrometer. The lithium-drifted silicon diodes have also been used for direct spectrometry, utilizing the neutron induced charged particle reactions in silicon. The methods used for the energy calibration and the timing calibration of the diodes, both during the installation of the spectrometer and during operation, are described. The detection of 2 MeV neutrons is done by fast plastic scintillators. Since the neutron generator which was used to test the detectors supplies 14 MeV or 2.5 MeV neutrons only, a neutron energy converter has to be constructed to study the detectors at other neutron energies. In the actual spectrometer an array of scintillation neutron detectors is used. A method of calibrating such an array of detectors with a gamma source was elaborated and is also described here. The result of the calibration is a set of parameters than can be used to determine the high voltage settings and the discriminator levels that are needed to achieve homogeneous sensitivity for all the detectors of the array. The energy scale itself was then calibrated by using gamma sources of various energies. To test the spectrometer as a whole at a neutron generator, a test bed was constructed. A lithium-drifted silicon diode was used to measure the neutron flux and the neutron energy resolution in the test bed. (au)

Large sample neutron activation analysis: establishment at CDTN/CNEN, Brazil

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Menezes, Maria Angela de B.C., E-mail: menezes@cdtn.b [Centro de Desenvolvimento da Tecnologia Nuclear (CDTN/CNEN-MG), Belo Horizonte, MG (Brazil); Jacimovic, Radojko, E-mail: radojko.jacimovic@ijs.s [Jozef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana (Slovenia). Dept. of Environmental Sciences. Group for Radiochemistry and Radioecology

2011-07-01

In order to improve the application of the neutron activation technique at CDTN/CNEN, the large sample instrumental neutron activation analysis is being established, IAEA BRA 14798 and FAPEMIG APQ-01259-09 projects. This procedure, LS-INAA, usually requires special facilities for the activation as well as for the detection. However, the TRIGA Mark I IPR R1, CDTN/CNEN has not been adapted for the irradiation and the usual gamma spectrometry has being carried out. To start the establishment of the LS-INAA, a 5g sample - IAEA/Soil 7 reference material was analyzed by k{sub 0}-standardized method. This paper is about the detector efficiency over the volume source using KayWin v2.23 and ANGLE V3.0 software. (author)

Neutron Spectrometry Work at the CNEN; La spectrometrie neutronique au CNEN; Raboty po nejtronnoj spektrometrii v nkyaeh; Trabajos de espectrometria neutronica realizados en el CNEN

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Caglioti, G; Ascarelli, P [Comitato Nazionale per L' energia Nucleare Euratom, G. C. R. Ispra, Varese (Italy)

1963-01-15

In this communication the main features of the triple axis spectrometer recently installed at the Ispra-1 reactor are presented. Preliminary results in the quasi elastic angular distribution of 1.4A neutrons scattered in liquid bromine are shown and briefly discussed. (author) [French] Dans ce memoire, l'auteur decrit les principales caracteristiques du spectrometre triaxial installe recemment au reacteur Ispra-1. Il donne et examine brievement les resultats preliminaires des experiences sur la distribution angulaire quasi elastique de neutrons de 1.4A a diffuses dans du brome liquide. (author) [Spanish] La memoria describe las principales caracteristicas del espectrometro triaxial recientemente instalado en el reactor lspra-1. Asimismo, expone brevemente los resultados iniciales de las determinaciones de distribucion angular de neutrones de 1,4 A dispersados en forma cuasi elastica por bromo liquido. (author)

First results of Minimum Fisher Regularisation as unfolding method for JET NE213 liquid scintillator neutron spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mlynar, Jan; Adams, John M.; Bertalot, Luciano; Conroy, Sean

2005-01-01

At JET, the NE213 liquid scintillator is being validated as a diagnostic tool for spectral measurements of neutrons emitted from the plasma. Neutron spectra have to be unfolded from the measured pulse-height spectra, which is an ill-conditioned problem. Therefore, use of two independent unfolding methods allows for less ambiguity on the interpretation of the data. In parallel to the routine algorithm MAXED based on the Maximum Entropy method, the Minimum Fisher Regularisation (MFR) method has been introduced at JET. The MFR method, known from two-dimensional tomography applications, has proved to provide a new transparent tool to validate the JET neutron spectra measured with the NE213 liquid scintillators. In this article, the MFR method applicable to spectra unfolding is briefly explained. After a mention of MFR tests on phantom spectra experimental neutron spectra are presented that were obtained by applying MFR to NE213 data in selected JET experiments. The results tend to confirm MAXED observations

Neutron activation analysis and ICP-AES to determine metal traces in antarctic krill. CNEA laboratories participation in the certification of a reference material

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Smichowski, Patricia N.; Farias, Silvia S.; Resnizky, Sara M.; Marrero, Julieta G.

1999-01-01

For the international certification of a reference material based on krill, As and Hg were determined by instrumental neutron activation analysis and Br, Co and Se by radiochemical neutron activation analysis. Inductive coupling plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) was used to determine Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn. The results, which are in good agreement with those obtained by other laboratories, are discussed

New developments in JET neutron, alpha particle and fuel mixture diagnostics with potential relevance to ITER

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Murari, A.; Bertalot, L.; Angelone, M.; Pillon, M.; Ericsson, G.; Conroy, S.; Kaellne, J.; Kiptily, V.; Popovichev, S.; Adams, J.M.; Stork, D.; Afanasyiev, V.; Mironov, M.; Bonheure, G.

2005-01-01

Some recent JET campaigns, with the introduction of trace amount (n T /n D 4 He, provided unique opportunities to test new diagnostic approaches and technologies for the detection of neutrons, alpha particles and fuel mixture. With regard to neutron detection, the recent activity covered all the most essential aspects: calibration and cross validation of the diagnostics, measurement of the spatial distribution of the neutrons, particle transport and finally neutron spectrometry. The first tests of some new neutron detection technologies were also undertaken successfully during the TTE campaign. To improve JET diagnostic capability in the field of alpha particles, a strong development program was devoted to the measurement of their slowing down and imaging with gamma ray spectroscopy. A new approach for the fusion community to measure the fast ion losses, based on the activation technique, was also successfully attempted for the first time on JET. A careful assessment of the NPA potential to determine the fuel mixture and the particle transport coefficients is under way. (author)

The analysis of thallium in geological materials by radiochemical neutron activation and x-ray fluorescence spectrometry: a comparison

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

McGoldrick, P J; Robinson, P [Tasmania Univ., Sandy Bay, TAS (Australia)

1994-12-31

Carrier-based radiochemical neutron activation (RNAA) is a precise and accurate technique for the analysis of Tl in geological materials. For about a decade, until the mid-80s, a procedure modified from Keays et al. (1974) was used at the University of Melbourne to analyse for Tl in a wide variety of geological materials. Samples of powdered rock weighing several hundred milligrams each were irradiated in HIFAR for between 12 hours and 1 week, and subsequently fused with a sodium hydroxide - sodium peroxide mixture and several milligrams of inactive Tl carrier. Following acid digestion of the fusion mixture anion exchange resin was used to separate Tl from the major radioactive rock constituents. The Tl was then stripped from the resin and purified as thallium iodide and a yield measured gravimetrically. Activity from {sup 204}Tl (a {beta}-emitter with a 3 8 year half-life) was measured and Tl determined by reference to pure chemical standards irradiated and processed along with the unkowns. Detection limits for the longer irradiations were about one part per billion. Precision was monitored by repeat analyses of `internal standard` rocks and was estimated to be about five to ten percent (one standard deviation). On the other hand, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) was seen as an excellent cost-effective alternative for thallium analysis in geological samples, down to 1 ppm. 6 refs. 1 tab., 1 fig.

The analysis of thallium in geological materials by radiochemical neutron activation and x-ray fluorescence spectrometry: a comparison

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

McGoldrick, P.J.; Robinson, P. [Tasmania Univ., Sandy Bay, TAS (Australia)

1993-12-31

Carrier-based radiochemical neutron activation (RNAA) is a precise and accurate technique for the analysis of Tl in geological materials. For about a decade, until the mid-80s, a procedure modified from Keays et al. (1974) was used at the University of Melbourne to analyse for Tl in a wide variety of geological materials. Samples of powdered rock weighing several hundred milligrams each were irradiated in HIFAR for between 12 hours and 1 week, and subsequently fused with a sodium hydroxide - sodium peroxide mixture and several milligrams of inactive Tl carrier. Following acid digestion of the fusion mixture anion exchange resin was used to separate Tl from the major radioactive rock constituents. The Tl was then stripped from the resin and purified as thallium iodide and a yield measured gravimetrically. Activity from {sup 204}Tl (a {beta}-emitter with a 3 8 year half-life) was measured and Tl determined by reference to pure chemical standards irradiated and processed along with the unkowns. Detection limits for the longer irradiations were about one part per billion. Precision was monitored by repeat analyses of `internal standard` rocks and was estimated to be about five to ten percent (one standard deviation). On the other hand, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) was seen as an excellent cost-effective alternative for thallium analysis in geological samples, down to 1 ppm. 6 refs. 1 tab., 1 fig.

Utilization of neutrons in nuclear data measurements and bulk sample analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jonah, S. A.

1995-01-01

Experimental investigations were carried out with neutrons in the fields of neutron data measurements and bulk sample analysis based on the interactions of neutron interactions required in the investigations together with some salient features of the sources employed are enumerated. Excitation cross section curves and isomeric cross section ratio of 58 Ni(n,p) 58 Co m , g reaction over the neutron energy range of between 5 and 15 MeV were determined using the activation analysis technique in combination with high-resolution gamma spectroscopy. Characteristics of the incident neutrons produced via the D-T reaction of a neutron generator and D-D reaction of a cyclotron were determined experimentally to account for the contributing effects of background neutrons especially in the 5-13 MeV neutron energy range where existing data are scanty and rather discrepant. The measured data agree well with calculated data using nuclear models but deviate significantly from the recommended data based on existing literature data. The measured δ act and δ m /δ g data made it possible to determine the cross section curve for 58 Ni(n,p) 58 Co m reaction. Furthermore the flux density distributions of thermal and primary fast neutrons in different configurations of bulk samples consisting of water, graphite and coal together with the attenuation characteristics were determined by the activation analysis and pulse height response spectrometry techniques. From the results obtained, an experimental geometry has been proposed for on-line elemental analysis of coal and other minerals. Similarly the total hydrogen content and 0+C/H atomic ratio in household and motor oils as well as crude oil samples of different origins were measured by an improved experimental arrangement based on the thermal neutron reflection technique. A detection limit of 0.12 w % was obtained for hydrogen indicating the possible adaptation of this technique for quality control of petroleum products

A compact neutron spectrometer for characterizing inertial confinement fusion implosions at OMEGA and the NIF

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zylstra, A. B., E-mail: zylstra@mit.edu; Gatu Johnson, M.; Frenje, J. A.; Séguin, F. H.; Rinderknecht, H. G.; Rosenberg, M. J.; Sio, H. W.; Li, C. K.; Petrasso, R. D. [Plasma Science and Fusion Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139 (United States); McCluskey, M.; Mastrosimone, D.; Glebov, V. Yu.; Forrest, C.; Stoeckl, C.; Sangster, T. C. [Laboratory for Laser Energetics, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14623 (United States)

2014-06-15

A compact spectrometer for measurements of the primary deuterium-tritium neutron spectrum has been designed and implemented on the OMEGA laser facility [T. Boehly et al., Opt. Commun. 133, 495 (1997)]. This instrument uses the recoil spectrometry technique, where neutrons produced in an implosion elastically scatter protons in a plastic foil, which are subsequently detected by a proton spectrometer. This diagnostic is currently capable of measuring the yield to ∼±10% accuracy, and mean neutron energy to ∼±50 keV precision. As these compact spectrometers can be readily placed at several locations around an implosion, effects of residual fuel bulk flows during burn can be measured. Future improvements to reduce the neutron energy uncertainty to ±15−20 keV are discussed, which will enable measurements of fuel velocities to an accuracy of ∼±25−40 km/s.

Tangential channel for nuclear gamma-resonance spectroscopy in thermal neutron capture

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Belogurov, V.N.; Bondars, H.Ya.; Lapenas, A.A.; Reznikov, R.S.; Senkov, P.E.

1979-01-01

Design of a tangential reactor channel which has been made to replace the radial one in the pulsed research reactor IRT-2000 is described. It allows to use the same hole in biological reactor schielding. Characteristics of neutron and gamma-background spectra at the excit of the channel are given and compared with analogous characteristics of the radial one. The gamma background in the tangential channel is lower than in the radial channel. The gamma spectra in the Gd 155 (n, γ)Gd 156 , Gd 157 (n, γ)Gd 158 , Er 167 (n, γ)Er 168 and Hf 177 (n, γ)Hf 178 reactions show that the application of X-ray detection units BDR with the tangential channel allows to carry out the gamma spectrometry of gamma quanta emitted in the thermal neutron capture by both high and low neutron capture cross section nuclei (e.g., Gdsup(157, 155) and Er 167 , Hf 177 , respectively)

Feasibility studies on large sample neutron activation analysis using a low power research reactor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gyampo, O.

2008-06-01

Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) using Ghana Research Reactor-1 (GHARR-1) can be directly applied to samples with masses in grams. Samples weights were in the range of 0.5g to 5g. Therefore, the representativity of the sample is improved as well as sensitivity. Irradiation of samples was done using a low power research reactor. The correction for the neutron self-shielding within the sample is determined from measurement of the neutron flux depression just outside the sample. Correction for gamma ray self-attenuation in the sample was performed via linear attenuation coefficients derived from transmission measurements. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of data were done using gamma ray spectrometry (HPGe detector). The results of this study on the possibilities of large sample NAA using a miniature neutron source reactor (MNSR) show clearly that the Ghana Research Reactor-1 (GHARR-1) at the National Nuclear Research Institute (NNRI) can be used for sample analyses up to 5 grams (5g) using the pneumatic transfer systems.

Neutron activation analysis with k{sub 0}-standardisation : general formalism and procedure

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pomme, S.; Hardeman, F. [Centre de l`Etude de l`Energie Nucleaire, Mol (Belgium); Robouch, P.; Etxebarria, N.; Arana, G. [European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements, Geel (Belgium)

1997-09-01

Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) with k{sub 0}-standardisation is a powerful tool for multi-element analysis at a broad range of trace element concentrations. An overview is given of the basic principles, fundamental equations, and general procedure of this method. Different aspects of the description of the neutron activation reaction rate are discussed, applying the Hogdahl convention. A general activation-decay formula is derived and its application to INAA is demonstrated. Relevant k{sub 0}-definitions for different activation decay schemes are summarised and upgraded to cases of extremely high fluxes. The main standardisation techniques for INAA are discussed, emphasizing the k{sub 0}-standardisation. Some general aspects of the basic equipment and its calibration are discussed, such as the characterisation of the neutron field and the tuning of the spectrometry part. A method for the prediction and optimisation of the analytical performance of INAA is presented.

Insight on agglomerates of gold nanoparticles in glass based on surface plasmon resonance spectrum: study by multi-spheres T-matrix method

Science.gov (United States)

Avakyan, L. A.; Heinz, M.; Skidanenko, A. V.; Yablunovski, K. A.; Ihlemann, J.; Meinertz, J.; Patzig, C.; Dubiel, M.; Bugaev, L. A.

2018-01-01

The formation of a localized surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectrum of randomly distributed gold nanoparticles in the surface layer of silicate float glass, generated and implanted by UV ArF-excimer laser irradiation of a thin gold layer sputter-coated on the glass surface, was studied by the T-matrix method, which enables particle agglomeration to be taken into account. The experimental technique used is promising for the production of submicron patterns of plasmonic nanoparticles (given by laser masks or gratings) without damage to the glass surface. Analysis of the applicability of the multi-spheres T-matrix (MSTM) method to the studied material was performed through calculations of SPR characteristics for differently arranged and structured gold nanoparticles (gold nanoparticles in solution, particles pairs, and core-shell silver-gold nanoparticles) for which either experimental data or results of the modeling by other methods are available. For the studied gold nanoparticles in glass, it was revealed that the theoretical description of their SPR spectrum requires consideration of the plasmon coupling between particles, which can be done effectively by MSTM calculations. The obtained statistical distributions over particle sizes and over interparticle distances demonstrated the saturation behavior with respect to the number of particles under consideration, which enabled us to determine the effective aggregate of particles, sufficient to form the SPR spectrum. The suggested technique for the fitting of an experimental SPR spectrum of gold nanoparticles in glass by varying the geometrical parameters of the particles aggregate in the recurring calculations of spectrum by MSTM method enabled us to determine statistical characteristics of the aggregate: the average distance between particles, average size, and size distribution of the particles. The fitting strategy of the SPR spectrum presented here can be applied to nanoparticles of any nature and in various

Collaborative Physical and Biological Dosimetry Studies for Neutron Capture Therapy at the RA-1 Research Reactor Facility

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

David W. Nigg; Amanda E. Schwint; John K. Hartwell; Elisa M. Heber; Veronica Trivillin; Jorge Castillo; Luis Wentzeis; Patrick Sloan; Charles A. Wemple

2004-10-01

Initial physical dosimetry measurements have been completed using activation spectrometry and thermoluminiscent dosimeters to characterize the BNCT irradiation facility developed at the RA-1 research reactor operated by the Argentine National Atomic Energy Commission in Buenos Aires. Some biological scoping irradiations have also been completed using a small-animal (hamster) oral mucosa tumor model. Results indicate that the RA-1 neutron source produces useful dose rates but that some improvements in the initial configuration will be needed to optimize the spectrum for thermal-neutron BNCT research applications.

Collaborative Physical and Biological Dosimetry Studies for Neutron Capture Therapy at the RA-1 Research Reactor Facility

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nigg, D.W.; Schwint, A.E.; Hartwell, J.K.; Heber, E.M.; Trivillin, V.; Castillo, J.; Wentzeis, L.; Sloan, P.; Wemple, C.A.

2004-10-04

Initial physical dosimetry measurements have been completed using activation spectrometry and thermoluminiscent dosimeters to characterize the BNCT irradiation facility developed at the RA-1 research reactor operated by the Argentine National Atomic Energy Commission in Buenos Aires. Some biological scoping irradiations have also been completed using a small-animal (hamster) oral mucosa tumor model. Results indicate that the RA-1 neutron source produces useful dose rates but that some improvements in the initial configuration will be needed to optimize the spectrum for thermal-neutron BNCT research applications.

Neutron--neutron logging

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Allen, L.S.

1977-01-01

A borehole logging tool includes a steady-state source of fast neutrons, two epithermal neutron detectors, and two thermal neutron detectors. A count rate meter is connected to each neutron detector. A first ratio detector provides an indication of the porosity of the formation surrounding the borehole by determining the ratio of the outputs of the two count rate meters connected to the two epithermal neutron detectors. A second ratio detector provides an indication of both porosity and macroscopic absorption cross section of the formation surrounding the borehole by determining the ratio of the outputs of the two count rate meters connected to the two thermal neutron detectors. By comparing the signals of the two ratio detectors, oil bearing zones and salt water bearing zones within the formation being logged can be distinguished and the amount of oil saturation can be determined. 6 claims, 2 figures

Design of a facility by neutron activation by spectrometry of prompt gamma

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Oliver, R.; Benites L, S.; Montoya Z, M.

1993-01-01

We show the basic design of the facility of PGNAA that we will install in the hall of the peruvian reactor RP-10. The thermal neutron flux (without a gamma filter) will be 2,0 x 10 8 n/cm -2 s -1 at 10 MW of power. The ratio of gamma exposition without gamma filter will be 29 kR/h. (authors). 8 refs., 2 figs

Neutron spectra and H*(10) around and 18 MV Linac by Ann's

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Banuelos F, A.; Valero L, C.; Borja H, C. G.; Hernandez D, V. M.; Vega C, H. R.

2011-10-01

Neutron spectra and ambient dose equivalent H*(10) were calculated for a radiotherapy room in 16 point-like detectors, 15 located inside the vault room and 1 located outside the bunker. The calculation was carried out using Monte Carlo Methods with the MCNP5 code for a generic radiotherapy room model operating with a 18 MV Linac, obtaining 16 neutron spectra with 47 energy bins, the H*(10) values were calculated from the neutron spectra by the use of the fluence-dose conversion factors. An artificial neural network were designed and trained to determine the neutron H*(10) in 15 different locations inside the vault room from the H*(10) dose calculated for the detector located outside the room, using the calculated dose values as training set, using the scaled conjugated gradient training algorithm. The mean squared error set for the network training was 1E(-14), adjusting the data in 99.992 %. In the treatment hall, as the distance respect to the isocenter is increased, the amount of neutrons and the H*(10) are reduced, neutrons in the high-energy region are shifted to lower region peaking around 0.1 MeV, however the epithermal and thermal neutrons remain constant due to the room-return effect. In the maze the spectra are dominated by epithermal and thermal neutrons that contributes to produce activation and the production of prompt gamma-rays. The results shows the using this artificial intelligence technic as a useful tool for the neutron spectrometry and dosimetry by the simplification on the neutronic fields characterization inside radiotherapy rooms avoiding the use of traditional spectrometric systems. And once the H*(10) doses have been calculated, to take the appropriated actions to reduce or prevent the patient and working staff exposure to this undesirable neutron radiation. (Author)

Development of new neutron spin echo spectrometer using multi-layer film spin splitter

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tasaki, Seiji; Ebisawa, Toru; Hino, Masahiro; Achiwa, Norio

2001-01-01

Neutron spin echo spectrometry is a method using neutron Larmor precession motion in magnetic field, for the measurement of velocity change before and after quasi-elastic scattering of neutron by a sample, such as macromolecules, with high accuracy. The neutron spin echo spectrometer is an interferometer in quantum mechanics, which a neutron is arranged with a parallel or an antiparallel state against magnetic field direction. Intensities of neutron interaction with matters are measured by the superposition of the both spin state components. The contrast losses of interference fringes caused from velocity diversion of incident neutrons are protected by spin echo method, in which a phase shift between the parallel and anti-parallel state neutrons is reduced by reversion of the spin state on the way of neutron path. Neutron beam of high intensity can be measured with a high energy resolution. Strong magnetic field is usually needed to introduce the phase shift between the both spin state components. A multi-layer film spin splitter (MSS) is developed for introducing the phase shift instead of the strong magnetic fields. The MSS consists of three layers, non-magnetic mirror of Ni/Ti, gap layer of Ti (∼1 μm), and magnetic mirror of Permalloy/Ge. Surface roughness of the gap layer leads to diversions of the phase shift, because that the fluctuation of thickness of gap layer is proportional to the phase shift. Characteristics of the MSS are tested as follow: (1) reflectivity of polarized neutron, (2) function check of the MSS, (3) uniformity check of the gap layer, (4) evaluation of the gap layer-thickness. (Suetake, M.)

Determination of sodium in pharmaceuticals by neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kanias, G.D.

1985-01-01

A simple, fast and accurate neutron activation analysis method for determination of Na in drugs concerning either active compound or total content was developed. The examined dosage forms consisted of 10 injectable ampoules and 10 bottles of oral solutions. The irradiation of samples and standards was carried out in the rotation system of the Reactor of Nuclear Research Center Democritos with maximal neutron flux of 2,9.10 13 n.cm -2 .sec -1 . Gamma-ray spectrometry of the irradiated samples and standards was accomplished with a coaxial Ge(Li) detector series Win 15 with an efficiency of 15% connected to an Ino-Tech 1024 channel analyser (Model IT 5200). The accuracy and precision of the method are found to be very high and therefore it could be established as an official one for the determination of sodium in parmaceuticals

Unfolding neutron spectra with BS-TLD system using genetic algorithms

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Santos, Joelan A.L., E-mail: jasantos@cnen.gov.br [Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife, PE (Brazil). Dept. de Energia Nuclear; Centro Regional de Ciencias Nucleares do Nordeste (CRCN-NE/CNEN-PE), Recife, PE (Brazil); Silva, Everton R. [Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife, PE (Brazil). Centro de Informatica; Ferreira, Tiago A.E. [Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco (UFRPE), Recife, PE (Brazil). Dept. de Estatistica e Informatica; Fonseca, Evaldo S. [Instituto de Radioprotecao e Dosimetria (IRD/CNEN-RJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil); Vilela, Eudice C., E-mail: ecvilela@cnen.gov.br [Centro Regional de Ciencias Nucleares do Nordeste (CRCN-NE/CNEN-PE), Recife, PE (Brazil)

2011-07-01

Due to the variability of neutron spectrum within the same environment, it is essential that the spectral distribution as function of energy to be characterized. To perform this task, the neutron spectrometer has a primary role in determining the neutron flux ({Phi}{sub E}(E)). Precise information allows radiological quantities establishment related to that spectrum but it is necessary, however, a series of steps with a spectrometric system that can cover a large interval of energy and whose answer is isotropic. The most widely used for accomplishing this task is the spectrometric Bonner spheres system. One of the biggest problems related to neutron spectrometry is the process of data analysis, known as unfolding. Most of the work undertaken to implement new techniques of this process, using data obtained with the scintillator {sup 6}LiI(I). However, characteristics related to the dead time make it not be so effective when used in high flow neutron fields. An alternative to this problem is the use of thermoluminescent detectors (TLD), but the codes used do not provide a more specific response matrix to unfolding the information obtained through these materials, which makes the development of a specific response matrix important to adequately characterize the response obtained by them. This paper proposes using a technique of artificial intelligence called genetic algorithm, which uses bio-inspired mathematical models and through the implementation of a specific matrix to unfolding data obtained from a combination of TLDs embedded in a system of Bonner spheres, such as thermal neutron detectors, to characterize the neutron spectrum as a function of energy. The results obtained with this method were in accordance with reference spectra, thus enables of this technique to unfolding neutrons spectra with BS-TLD system. (author)

Unfolding neutron spectra with BS-TLD system using genetic algorithms

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Santos, Joelan A.L.; Silva, Everton R.; Vilela, Eudice C.

2011-01-01

Due to the variability of neutron spectrum within the same environment, it is essential that the spectral distribution as function of energy to be characterized. To perform this task, the neutron spectrometer has a primary role in determining the neutron flux (Φ E (E)). Precise information allows radiological quantities establishment related to that spectrum but it is necessary, however, a series of steps with a spectrometric system that can cover a large interval of energy and whose answer is isotropic. The most widely used for accomplishing this task is the spectrometric Bonner spheres system. One of the biggest problems related to neutron spectrometry is the process of data analysis, known as unfolding. Most of the work undertaken to implement new techniques of this process, using data obtained with the scintillator 6 LiI(I). However, characteristics related to the dead time make it not be so effective when used in high flow neutron fields. An alternative to this problem is the use of thermoluminescent detectors (TLD), but the codes used do not provide a more specific response matrix to unfolding the information obtained through these materials, which makes the development of a specific response matrix important to adequately characterize the response obtained by them. This paper proposes using a technique of artificial intelligence called genetic algorithm, which uses bio-inspired mathematical models and through the implementation of a specific matrix to unfolding data obtained from a combination of TLDs embedded in a system of Bonner spheres, such as thermal neutron detectors, to characterize the neutron spectrum as a function of energy. The results obtained with this method were in accordance with reference spectra, thus enables of this technique to unfolding neutrons spectra with BS-TLD system. (author)

Modification of chemical, optical and structural properties of Bayfol CR-6-2 using gamma and neutron irradiation

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Shehata, Mohamed M.; Radwan, Samh I.; Hassan, Amin [Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo (Egypt). Nuclear Research Centre; Waly, Sayed A. [Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo (Egypt). Second Research Reactor; Badawy, Zaynab M. [Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo (Egypt). Experimental Nuclear Physics Dept.

2016-08-01

The effects of gamma and neutron irradiations on the chemical, optical and structural properties of Bayfol CR-6-2 were investigated. The samples were irradiated by γ-rays from a {sup 60}Co source at various doses ranging between 16 and 900 kGy at room temperature in atmospheric air. For neutrons, an Am-Be neutron facility was used for the sample irradiation in thermal mode which had an activity of 185 GBq. Samples were irradiated with different doses of neutrons ranging from 15.7 to 564.2 mGy. The changes induced were analyzed using UV-Vis and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry. The results demonstrated an occurrence of oxidative degradation, resulting in the formation of carbonyl groups at 1700 cm{sup -1}. Simultaneous thermo-gravimetric investigation (TGA) has been performed on the samples of 0.3 mm thickness. The results obtained indicate that cross-linking predominates at small neutron doses and main chain scission happens at higher doses.

Sci-Sat AM: Brachy - 04: Neutron production around a radiation therapy linac bunker - monte carlo simulations and physical measurements.

Science.gov (United States)

Khatchadourian, R; Davis, S; Evans, M; Licea, A; Seuntjens, J; Kildea, J

2012-07-01

Photoneutrons are a major component of the equivalent dose in the maze and near the door of linac bunkers. Physical measurements and Monte Carlo (MC) calculations of neutron dose are key for validating bunker design with respect to health regulations. We attempted to use bubble detectors and a 3 He neutron spectrometer to measure neutron equivalent dose and neutron spectra in the maze and near the door of one of our bunkers. We also ran MC simulations with MCNP5 to measure the neutron fluence in the same region. Using a point source of neutrons, a Clinac 1800 linac operating at 10 MV was simulated and the fluence measured at various locations of interest. We describe the challenges faced when measuring dose with bubble detectors in the maze and the complexity of photoneutron spectrometry with linacs operating in pulsed mode. Finally, we report on the development of a userfriendly GUI for shielding calculations based on the NCRP 151 formalism. © 2012 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Neutronics of pulsed spallation neutron sources

CERN Document Server

Watanabe, N

2003-01-01

Various topics and issues on the neutronics of pulsed spallation neutron sources, mainly for neutron scattering experiments, are reviewed to give a wide circle of readers a better understanding of these sources in order to achieve a high neutronic performance. Starting from what neutrons are needed, what the spallation reaction is and how to produce slow-neutrons more efficiently, the outline of the target and moderator neutronics are explained. Various efforts with some new concepts or ideas have already been devoted to obtaining the highest possible slow-neutron intensity with desired pulse characteristics. This paper also reviews the recent progress of such efforts, mainly focused on moderator neutronics, since moderators are the final devices of a neutron source, which determine the source performance. Various governing parameters for neutron-pulse characteristics such as material issues, geometrical parameters (shape and dimensions), the target-moderator coupling scheme, the ortho-para-hydrogen ratio, po...

Activation measurements for fast neutrons. Part B. 63Ni measurements by accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Straume, Tore; Rugel, Georg; Marchetti, Alfredo A.

2005-01-01

The AMS-measurements of 63 Ni in copper samples obtained from different distances in Hiroshima represent the first detection of fast neutrons after more than 50 years, and the first reliable bomb-induced fast neutron measurements beyond 700 m from the hypocenter. A major significance of these 63 Ni results is that they provide, for the first time, fast neutron measurements at the distances most relevant to atomic-bomb survivor locations (900-1,500 m). The measurement of 63 Ni in copper samples using AMS provides a substantial improvement in fast neutron detection compared with the 32 P measurements made in 1945. For example, the measurement-to-background ratio at about 400 m from the hypocenter is about 55 for 63 Ni and only about 2 for the 32 P measurements. Also, the 63 Ni measurements reach background levels at about 1,800 m from the hypocenter compared with only about 700 m for 32 P. At distances of ∼1,800 m from the hypocenter, out to at least 5,000 meters, the measurements appear to level off at a value on the order of 7x10 4 atoms of 63 Ni/g of Cu, suggesting a background of approximately that magnitude. When this background is subtracted and the resulting data corrected to 1945, the measured 63 Ni in copper samples from Hiroshima are in good agreement with DS02 sample-specific calculations. Comparisons with DS86 calculations also show good agreement except at the Bank of Japan. The difference at that distance is significant when compared with DS86 calculations. (J.P.N.)

Characterisation of the IRSN CANEL/T400 facility producing realistic neutron fields for calibration and test purposes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gressier, V.; Lacoste, V.; Lebreton, L.; Muller, H.; Pelcot, G.; Bakali, M.; Fernandez, F.; Tomas, M.; Roberts, N. J.; Thomas, D. J.; Reginatto, M.; Wiegel, B.; Wittstock, J.

2004-01-01

The new CANEL/T400 facility has been set-up at the Inst. for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN) to produce a realistic neutron field. The accurate characterisation of this neutron field is mandatory since this facility will be used as a reference neutron source. For this reason an international measuring campaign, involving four laboratories with extensive expertise in neutron metrology and spectrometry, was organised through a concerted EUROMET project. Measurements were performed with Bonner sphere (BS) systems to determine the energy distribution of the emitted neutrons over the whole energy range (from thermal energy up to a few MeV). Additional measurements were performed with proton recoil detectors to provide detailed information in the energy region above 90 keV. The results obtained by the four laboratories are in agreement with each other and are compared with a calculation performed with the MCNP4C Monte-Carlo code. As a conclusion of this exercise, a reliable characterisation of the CANEL/T400 neutron field is obtained. (authors)

Measurement of fast neutron spectrum using CR-39 detectors and a new image analysis program (autoTRAKn)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Paul, Sabyasachi; Tripathy, S.P.; Sahoo, G.S.; Bandyopadhyay, T.; Sarkar, P.K.

2013-01-01

An attempt is made to estimate the neutron spectrum using the CR-39 (Solid state nuclear track) detector and a new image analyzing program. For this purpose the earlier developed program (autoTRAK) is modified by introducing the required features such as angular correction for the recoil particles, fluence-to-dose conversion coefficient, detection sensitivity of CR-39 detectors, etc. to make it applicable for neutron spectrometry and dosimetry. This upgraded program (autoTRAK n ) is tested with a mono-energetic source (D–T) and two other standard neutron sources, viz. 241 Am–Be and 252 Cf. The program is validated by reproducing these standard spectra, and comparing with the spectra reported by other investigators using different measuring techniques. The ratios of dose equivalent (H ⁎ (10)) to fluence (Φ) are also estimated from the spectra and are compared with the reference values for these neutron sources. An additional feature of this program is explored for counting high density overlapping tracks more precisely and effectively compared to other commonly used image analyzing softwares. This method is found to be simple and promising, which can always be used as a supplementary measuring technique. The details of the modified program, reproduction and comparison of the neutron spectra, reproducibility of the methodology and example of overlapping track counting are presented and discussed. -- Highlights: •A novel image analysis technique (autoTRAK n ) is developed to evaluate CR-39 detectors used for neutron spectrometry and dosimetry. •The methodology is tested to reproduce three standard neutron spectra, (a) D–T, (b) 241 Am–Be, and (c) 252 Cf. •A good matching is observed between dosimetric values obtained by the program and the available reference values. •The program autoTRAK n is also observed to be efficient to distinguish high density overlapping tracks without any segregation procedure. •The methodology seems to be simple, which

Neutronics of pulsed spallation neutron sources

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Watanabe, Noboru

2003-01-01

Various topics and issues on the neutronics of pulsed spallation neutron sources, mainly for neutron scattering experiments, are reviewed to give a wide circle of readers a better understanding of these sources in order to achieve a high neutronic performance. Starting from what neutrons are needed, what the spallation reaction is and how to produce slow-neutrons more efficiently, the outline of the target and moderator neutronics are explained. Various efforts with some new concepts or ideas have already been devoted to obtaining the highest possible slow-neutron intensity with desired pulse characteristics. This paper also reviews the recent progress of such efforts, mainly focused on moderator neutronics, since moderators are the final devices of a neutron source, which determine the source performance. Various governing parameters for neutron-pulse characteristics such as material issues, geometrical parameters (shape and dimensions), the target-moderator coupling scheme, the ortho-para-hydrogen ratio, poisoning, etc are discussed, aiming at a high performance pulsed spallation source

Mass distributions in monoenergetic-neutron-induced fission of 232Th

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Glendenin, L.E.; Gindler, J.E.; Ahmad, I.; Henderson, D.J.; Meadows, J.W.

1980-01-01

Fission product yields for 38 masses were determined for the fission of 232 Th with essentially monoenergetic neutrons of 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 5.9, 6.4, 6.9, 7.6, and 8.0 MeV. Fission product activities were measured by Ge(Li) γ-ray spectrometry of irradiated 232 Th foils and by chemical separation of the fission product elements followed by β counting. The mass yield data for 232 Th(n,f ) show a sensitive increase of fission yields in the near-symmetric mass region (valley) with increasing incident neutron energy E/sub n/ and a pronounced dip in yield at the onset of second-chance fission just above the neutron binding energy (at approx. 6 MeV) where the excitation energy is lowered by competition with neutron evaporation prior to fission. The effect of second-chance fission is also seen in the yields of asymmetric peak products. A distinct third peak is observed at symmetry in the valley of the mass distribution, and enhanced yields are observed in the asymmetric peaks at masses associated with even Z (proton pairing effect). The fission yeilds of 232 Th(n,f ) are compared with those of 238 U(n,f ) and 232 Th

Schottky mass measurements of heavy neutron-rich nuclides in the element range $70\\leq Z\\leq 79$ at the ESR

CERN Document Server

Shubina, D; Litvinov, Yu A; Blaum, K; Brandau, C; Bosch, F; Carroll, J J; Casten, R F; Cullen, D M; Cullen, I J; Deo, A Y; Detwiler, B; Dimopoulou, C; Farinon, F; Geissel, H; Haettner, E; Heil, M; Kempley, R S; Kozhuharov, C; Knobel, R; Kurcewicz, J; Kuzminchuk, N; Litvinov, S A; Liu, Z; Mao, R; Nociforo, C; Nolden, F; Patyk, Z; Plass, W R; Prochazka, A; Reed, M W; Sanjari, M S; Scheidenberger, C; Steck, M; Stohlker, Th; Sun, B; Swan, T P D; Trees, G; Walker, P M; Weick, H; Winckler, N; Winkler, M; Woods, P J; Yamaguchi, T; Zhou, C

2013-01-01

Storage-ring mass spectrometry was applied to neutron-rich $^{197}$Au projectile fragments. Masses of $^{181,183}$Lu, $^{185,186}$Hf, $^{187,188}$Ta, $^{191}$W, and $^{192,193}$Re nuclei were measured for the first time. The uncertainty of previously known masses of $^{189,190}$W and $^{195}$Os nuclei was improved. Observed irregularities on the smooth two-neutron separation energies for Hf and W isotopes are linked to the collectivity phenomena in the corresponding nuclei.

Gamma spectrometry and chemical characterization of bioactive glass seeds with Holmium-166 for oncological implants

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Valente, Eduardo S.

2009-01-01

Bioactive glass seeds synthesized by the sol-gel technique with Si:Ho:Ca composition with natural holmium incorporated were irradiated in the TRIGA type nuclear reactor IPR-R1 at 100kW, in the central thimble where the thermal neutron flux is 2.8x10 12 n/cm 2 .s and the epithermal neutron flux is 2.6 X 10 11 n/cm 2 .s . After an 8 hour irradiation time, with an induced activity close to 110MBq/seed, a set of seeds was submitted to Gamma Spectrometry Analysis in a counting system with an HPGe detector, ORTEC electronic instrumentation and a Camberra Multichannel Analyser, to determine all radionuclides present on the sample as well as its individual activities. Special attention was paid on the discrimination of Si, 40 Ca, 44 Ca, C and Ho as the other expected elements like 48 Ca, 2 H and 18 O were present in traces or have very short half-lives. The second sample was submitted to Plasma spectrometry to determine the 166 Ho concentration in weight. The third sample was submitted to an X-ray spectrometry in a JEOL-JXA-8900RL equipment to determine its qualitative chemical composition, in order to evaluate impurities and nominal composition. It was determined that most of the activity, after decaying of short half-life elements, was due to 166 Ho present on the sample, with a well characterized β and gamma spectra. The homogeneity of the seeds was tested on the X-ray spectrometry, and verified that there is no discrepancy in composition from distinct seeds or in a same seed. The results are relevant on the investigation of the viability of producing 166 Ho radioactive seeds for oncological implants. (author)

Application of neutron activation analysis method on biomonitors for assessing environment quality

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nitescu, E. A.; Valeca, S.; Bucsa, A. F.

2016-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to determine the chemical elements concentrations which affect both the population health and environment, such as toxic agents which are contained in air and are retained by precipitation inside the biomonitors vegetal tissues. The Neutron Activation Analysis is an analytic technique based on measuring the numbers and the energy of gamma radiation emitted by the radioactive isotopes produced in the sample matrix by irradiation with thermal neutrons in a nuclear reactor [1]. Usually, the samples are irradiated together with specific neutron flux monitors, duplicates and interest elements standards for a prior selected period of time inside the core of nuclear reactor. After the irradiation experiment and the specific radioactive decaying, can proceed measuring the gamma energies spectrum by using a high resolution detection system (HPGe - High Purity Germanium crystal) for gamma spectrometry and then assess the impact of the traced elements on population and environment. (authors)

ESR-dosimetry in thermal and epithermal neutron fields for application in boron neutron capture therapy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Schmitz, Tobias

2016-01-22

Dosimetry is essential for every form of radiotherapy. In Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) mixed neutron and gamma fields have to be considered. Dose is deposited in different neutron interactions with elements in the penetrated tissue and by gamma particles, which are always part of a neutron field. The therapeutic dose in BNCT is deposited by densely ionising particles, originating from the fragmentation of the isotope boron-10 after capture of a thermal neutron. Despite being investigated for decades, dosimetry in neutron beams or fields for BNCT remains complex, due to the variety in type and energy of the secondary particles. Today usually ionisation chambers combined with metal foils are used. The applied techniques require extensive effort and are time consuming, while the resulting uncertainties remain high. Consequently, the investigation of more effective techniques or alternative dosimeters is an important field of research. In this work the possibilities of ESR-dosimeters in those fields have been investigated. Certain materials, such as alanine, generate stable radicals upon irradiation. Using Electron Spin Resonance (ESR) spectrometry the amount of radicals, which is proportional to absorbed dose, can be quantified. Different ESR detector materials have been irradiated in the thermal neutron field of the research reactor TRIGA research reactor in Mainz, Germany, with five setups, generating different secondary particle spectra. Further irradiations have been conducted in two epithermal neutron beams. The detector response, however, strongly depends on the dose depositing particle type and energy. It is hence necessary to accompany measurements by computational modelling and simulation. In this work the Monte Carlo code FLUKA was used to calculate absorbed doses and dose components. The relative effectiveness (RE), linking absorbed dose and detector response, has been calculated using amorphous track models. For the simulation, detailed models of

Rapid determination of halogenes in milk by instrumental neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alfassi, Z.B.; Lavi, N.

1985-01-01

The absolute concetrations of iodine, bromine and chlorine in milk were determined by epithermal neutron activation followed by high resolution gamma-ray spectrometry. Two kinds of milk commonly consumed in Israel were investigated. The concentration of iodine, bromine and chlorine were found to be 0.18-0.30 μg/ml, 2.02-2.85 μg/ml and 0.65 mg/ml, respectively. The method is fast, selective, accurate and highly sensitive. (author)

Aluminium-gold reference material for the k0-standardisation of neutron activation analysis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ingelbrecht, C.; Peetermans, F.; Corte, F. de; Wispelaere, A. de; Vandecasteele, C.; Courtijn, E.; Hondt, P. d'

1991-01-01

Gold is an excellent comparator material for the k 0 -standardisation of neutron activation analysis because of its convenient and well defined nuclear properties. The most suitable form for a reference material is a dilute aluminium-gold alloy, for which the self-shielding effect for neutrons is small. Castings of composition Al-0.1 wt.% Au were prepared by crucible-less levitation melting, which gives close control of ingot composition with minimal contamination of the melt. The alloy composition was checked using induction-coupled plasma source emission spectrometry. The homogeneity of the alloy was measured by neutron activation analysis and a relative standard deviation of the gold content of 0.30% was found (10 mg samples). Metallography revealed a homogeneous distribution of AuAl 2 particles. The alloy was certified as Reference Materials CBNM-530, with certified gold mass fraction 0.100±0.002 wt.%. (orig.)

Neutron radiography with ultracold neutrons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bates, J.C.

1981-01-01

The neutron transmission factor of very thin films may be low if the neutron energy is comparable to the pseudo-potential of the film material. Surprisingly, perhaps, it is relatively easy to obtain neutrons with such low energies in sufficient numbers to produce neutron radiographs. (orig.)

The chemical speciation and analysis of trace elements in sediment with Neutron Activation Analytical method(NAA) and atomic mass spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nam, Sang-Ho; Kim, Jae-Jin; Chung, Yong-Sam; Kim, Sun-Ha

2003-01-01

In this research, first of all, the analytical methods for the determination of major elements in sediment have been developed with ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry). The analytical results of major elements (Al, Ca, K, Fe, Mg) with Cool ICP-MS were much better than those with normal ICP-MS. The analytical results were compared with those of NAA (Neutron Activation Analysis). NAA were a little superior to ICP-MS for the determination of major elements in sediment as a non-destructive trace analytical trace analytical method. The analytical methods for the determination of minor elements (Cr, Ce, U, Co, Pb, As, Se) have been also developed with ICP-MS. The analytical results by standard calibration curve with ICP-MS were not accurate due to the matrix interferences. Thus, the internal standard method was applied, then the analytical results for minor elements with ICP-MS were greatly improved. The analytical results obtained by ICP-MS were compared with those obtained by NAA. It showed that the two analytical methods have great capabilities for the determination of minor elements in sediments. Accordingly, the NAA will plan an important role in analysis of environment sample with complex matrix. ICP-MS also will play an important role because it has a great capability for the determination of Pb that could not be determined by NAA

High conduction neutron absorber to simulate fast reactor environment in an existing test reactor

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Donna Post Guillen; Larry R. Greenwood; James R. Parry

2014-06-22

A new metal matrix composite material has been developed to serve as a thermal neutron absorber for testing fast reactor fuels and materials in an existing pressurized water reactor. The performance of this material was evaluated by placing neutron fluence monitors within shrouded and unshrouded holders and irradiating for up to four cycles. The monitor wires were analyzed by gamma and X-ray spectrometry to determine the activities of the activation products. Adjusted neutron fluences were calculated and grouped into three bins—thermal, epithermal, and fast—to evaluate the spectral shift created by the new material. A comparison of shrouded and unshrouded fluence monitors shows a thermal fluence decrease of ~11 % for the shielded monitors. Radioisotope activity and mass for each of the major activation products is given to provide insight into the evolution of thermal absorption cross-section during irradiation. The thermal neutron absorption capability of the composite material appears to diminish at total neutron fluence levels of ~8 × 1025 n/m2. Calculated values for dpa in excess of 2.0 were obtained for two common structural materials (iron and nickel) of interest for future fast flux experiments.

Study of an integrated electronic monitor for neutron fields

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Barelaud, B.; Nexon-Mokhtari, F.; Barrau, C.; Decossas, J.L.; Vareille, J.C. [Limoges Univ., 87 (France); Sarrabayrouse, G.J. [CNRS, 31 - Toulouse (France)

1995-12-31

The majority of the individual neutron monitors measure incorrectly in a certain energy range (10 keV-500 keV). For electronic devices, this problem is due to their high {gamma} sensitivity. To solve this problem a microelectronic detector design for neutron spectrometry is now being studied at LEPOFI. It is based on the measurement of the total energy which is deposited by {sup 6}Li (n, {alpha}) {sup 3}H or {sup 10}B (n {alpha}) {sup 7}Li reactions in silicon detectors. A new electronic sensor - for example a boron or lithium sandwich device -has been developed in collaboration with LAAS. Specific techniques for silicon sensor coating with boron have been developed and are briefly presented. The response of the detector has been computed using a model and a code developed at LEPOFI. Several parameters have been taken into account in the calculations: the type of layer, its thickness, the characteristics of the detector. The results of these simulations are discussed and calculated pulse height distributions for various designs are presented. The present status of the investigation only concerns thermal neutrons. (author).

Neutron Skins and Neutron Stars

OpenAIRE

Piekarewicz, J.

2013-01-01

The neutron-skin thickness of heavy nuclei provides a fundamental link to the equation of state of neutron-rich matter, and hence to the properties of neutron stars. The Lead Radius Experiment ("PREX") at Jefferson Laboratory has recently provided the first model-independence evidence on the existence of a neutron-rich skin in 208Pb. In this contribution we examine how the increased accuracy in the determination of neutron skins expected from the commissioning of intense polarized electron be...

Determination of essential and toxic elements in commercial baby foods by instrumental neutron activation analysis and atomic absorption spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vallinoto, Priscila

2013-01-01

The World Health Organization recommends that infants should be breast fed exclusively for at least six months after birth. After this period, it is recommended to start introducing complementary foods, in order to meet the child's nutritional, mineral and energy needs. Commercial food products for infants form an important part of the diet for many babies. Thus, it is very important that such food contains sufficient amounts of minerals. Inadequate complementary feeding is a major cause of high rates of infant malnutrition in developing countries. In this study, essential elements: Ca, Cl, Co, Cr, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Se and Zn and toxic elements: As, Cd, Hg levels were determined in twenty seven different commercial infant food product samples by Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). In order to validate both methodologies the reference material: INCT MPH-2 Mixed Polish Herbs and NIST - SRM 1577b Bovine Liver by INAA and NIST - SRM 1548th Typical Diet and NIST - SRM 1547 Peach Leaves by AAS were analyzed. The twenty seven baby food samples were acquired from Sao Paulo city supermarkets and stores. Essential and toxic elements were determined. Most of the essential element concentrations obtained were lower than the World Health Organization requirements, while concentrations of toxic elements were below the tolerable upper limit. These low essential element concentrations in these samples indicate that infants should not be fed only with commercial complementary foods. (author)

Study of Ne and Kr production in Mg, Al, Rb, Sr and Y targets by 0-180 MeV neutrons. Cosmochemical application

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bertin, P.

1989-07-01

High sensitivity mass spectrometry technique has been used to measure production of noble gases Ne and Kr induced by 0-180 MeV neutrons in Mg, Al, Rb, Sr and Y targets. This experiment allowed us an evaluation of the implied excitation functions, in an energy range where no experimental data were available. These results have exhibited the importance of secondary neutrons induced in the interaction of cosmic rays with meteorites and moon surface [fr

Neutron field characterization in the installation for BNCT study in the IEA-R1 reactor; Caracterizacao do campo de neutrons na instalacao para estudo em BNCT no reator IEA-R1

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carneiro Junior, Valdeci

2008-07-01

This work aims to characterize the mixed neutron and gamma field, in the sample irradiation position, in a research installation for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT), in the IPEN IEA-R1 reactor. The BNCT technique has been studied as a safe and selective option in the treatment of resistant cancerigenous tumors or considered non-curable by the conventional techniques, for example, the Glioblastoma Multiform - a brain cancerigenous tumor. Neutron flux measurements were carried out: thermal, resonance and fast, as well as neutron and gamma rays doses, in the sample position, using activation foils detectors and thermoluminescent dosimeters. For the determination of the neutron spectrum and intensity, a set of different threshold activation foils and gold foils covered and uncovered with cadmium irradiated in the installation was used, analyzed by a high Pure Germanium semiconductor detector, coupled to an electronic system suitable for gamma spectrometry. The results were processed with the SAND-BP code. The doses due to gamma and neutron rays were determined using thermoluminescent dosimeters TLD 400 and TLD 700 sensitive to gamma and TLD 600, sensitive to neutrons. The TLDs were selected and used for obtaining the calibration curves - dosimeter answer versus dose - from each of the TLD three types, which were necessary to calculate the doses due to neutron and gamma, in the sample position. The radiation field, in the sample irradiation position, was characterized flux for thermal neutrons of 1.39.10{sup 8} {+-} 0,12.10{sup 8} n/cm{sup 2}s the doses due to thermal neutrons are three times higher than those due to gamma radiation and confirm the reproducibility and consistency of the experimental findings obtained. Considering these results, the neutron field and gamma radiation showed to be appropriated for research in BNCT. (author)

Determination of thorium in seawater by neutron activation analysis and mass spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Huh, Chih-An.

1987-01-01

The recent development of neutron activation analysis and mass spectrometric methods for the determination of 232 Th in seawater has made possible rapid sampling and analysis of this long-lived, non-radiogenic thorium isotope on small-volume samples. The marine geochemical utility of 232 Th, whose concentration in seawater is extremely low, warrants the development of these sensitive techniques. The analytical methods and some results are presented and discussed in this article. 24 refs., 3 figs

Cu,Cr and As determination in preserved woods (Eucalyptus ssp.) by X-ray fluorescence spectrometries

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pereira Junior, Sergio Matias

2014-01-01

Brazil produces around 2.2 millions of cubic meters of treated wood to meet the annual demand of railway, electric, rural and construction sectors. The most used wood species are eucalyptus (Eucalyptus ssp.) and pine (Pinus ssp.).The treated woods used for poles, sleepers, fence posts and plywoods should be according to Brazilian norms requirements. The most usual wood preservative products used in Brazil are CCA (chromated copper arsenate) and CCB (copper chromium and boron salt). The analytical methods, such as flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS), plasma inductively coupled optical emission spectrometry (ICPOES) and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRFS) have been used for the analytical control of those treatment processes. In this work, the eucalyptus trees (Eucalyptus ssp) samples was obtained from Minas Gerais State, Brazil, cut plantation areas. Under pressure, eucalyptus wood samples were submitted to different concentration of CCA solution reaching 3.9, 6.7, 9.1, 12.4 and 14.0 kg of CCA by m-³ sapwood retentions. Samples in cylinders and sawdust forms were obtained from treated wood samples. Copper, chromium and arsenic determination was performed using the energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRFS), portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (PXRFS), flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) and instrumental neutron activation analysis. In this work, the method of analysis, sensitivity, precision and accuracy performances of the related techniques were outlined. (author)

A comparison in the reconstruction of neutron spectrums using classical iterative techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ortiz R, J. M.; Martinez B, M. R.; Vega C, H. R.; Gallego, E.

2009-10-01

One of the key drawbacks to the use of BUNKI code is that the process begins the reconstruction of the spectrum based on a priori knowledge as close as possible to the solution that is sought. The user has to specify the initial spectrum or do it through a subroutine called MAXIET to calculate a Maxwellian and a 1/E spectrum as initial spectrum. Because the application of iterative procedures by to resolve the reconstruction of neutron spectrum needs an initial spectrum, it is necessary to have new proposals for the election of the same. Based on the experience gained with a widely used method of reconstruction, called BUNKI, has developed a new computational tools for neutron spectrometry and dosimetry, which was first introduced, which operates by means of an iterative algorithm for the reconstruction of neutron spectra. The main feature of this tool is that unlike the existing iterative codes, the choice of the initial spectrum is performed automatically by the program, through a neutron spectra catalog. To develop the code, the algorithm was selected as the routine iterative SPUNIT be used in computing tool and response matrix UTA4 for 31 energy groups. (author)

Neutron activation analysis of trace elements in biological tissue

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Velandia, J A; Perkons, A K

1974-01-01

Thermal Neutron Activation Analysis with Instrumental Ge(Li) Gamma Spectrometry was used to determine the amounts of more than 30 trace constituents in heart tissue of rats and kidney tissue of rabbits. The results were confirmed by a rapid ion-exchange group separation method in the initial stages of the experiments. The samples were exposed to thermal neutrons for periods between 3 minutes and 14 hours. Significant differences in the amounts and types of trace elements in the two different tissue types are apparent, however, are probably due to specific diets. Tables of relevant nuclear data, standard concentrations, radiochemical separation recoveries, and quantitative analytical results are presented. The ion-exchange group separation scheme and typical examples of the instrumental gamma ray spectra are shown. The techniques developed in this study are being used for a large scale constituent survey of various diseased and healthy human tissues.

Determination of Th and U by neutron activation for gamma spectrometry calibration in situ; Determinacion de Th y U por activacion neutronica para calibracion de espectrometria gamma in situ

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nava M, F.; Rios M, C.; Mireles G, F.; Saucedo A, S.; Davila R, I.; Pinedo, J. L. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Estudios Nucleares, Cipres No. 10, Fracc. La Penuela, 98060 Zacatecas (Mexico); Landsberger, S., E-mail: iqnava@hotmail.com [University of Texas at Austin, Nuclear Engineering Teaching Laboratory, Pickle Research Campus, R9000 Austin, Texas 78712 (United States)

2012-10-15

Using the analysis by neutron activation to determine the profile of the thorium and uranium concentration calibration factors were obtained for their use in the gamma spectrometry in situ. Three sites were selected (San Ramon, Villa de Cos y la Zacatecana) and the analysis by activation was development in the Laboratory of Nuclear Engineering Teaching of the Texas University in Austin with the nuclear reactor Ut-TRIGA. Starting from the gamma spectra in situ, the areas of normalized photo-pick of the radioisotopes were: {sup 208}Tl and {sup 228}Ac for the thorium series and {sup 214}Pb and {sup 214}Bi for the uranium series. The averages of the factors found in units of (cpm/Bq/Kg) are of 105.63{+-}8.32 and 75.87{+-}4.61 for the thorium and uranium, respectively. (Author)

Neutron-neutron probe for uranium exploration