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Personal neutron dosimetry at a research reactor facility
V Kamenopoulou1, E Carinou, I E Stamatelatos
1Greek Atomic Energy Commission, P.O. Box 60092, Ag. Paraskevi 15310, Greece.
Radiation Protection Dosimetry
|October 6, 2001
Summary
This study calibrates individual neutron dosemeters (TLD) for research reactor personnel. The method accurately estimates neutron energy and dose equivalent, improving radiation safety.
Area of Science:
- Health Physics
- Radiation Dosimetry
- Nuclear Engineering
Background:
- Individual neutron monitoring is challenging due to dosemeter energy response variations.
- Accurate dosimetry is crucial for personnel safety in research reactor facilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a calibration approach for individual neutron dosemeters (thermoluminescent dosimeters - TLDs) used by personnel at a research reactor facility.
- To establish a method for estimating neutron energy spectra and deducing dose equivalent based on dosemeter readings and worker location.
Main Methods:
- Neutron energy response functions for TLDs were determined using the MCNP code.
- Monte Carlo simulations defined neutron spectra at various reactor working positions.
- Ambient dose rate measurements were performed for verification.
Main Results:
- The MCNP-derived response functions showed good agreement with experimental measurements across three different neutron spectra.
- Three distinct calibration curves were developed for thermal, intermediate, and fast neutron energy ranges.
- A method was established to estimate neutron energy by analyzing TLD pellet ratios and worker position.
Conclusions:
- The proposed TLD calibration approach effectively addresses challenges in individual neutron monitoring.
- The method allows for accurate dose equivalent estimation by considering neutron energy and location.
- This technique enhances radiation safety protocols for personnel in research reactor environments.