PRESCILA: a new, lightweight neutron rem meter

Area of Science:

• Nuclear physics
• Radiation detection and measurement
• Health physics instrumentation

Background:

• Conventional neutron rem meters utilize outdated 1960s technology, leading to ergonomic challenges (heavy, bulky) and limited high-energy response (>10 MeV).
• Existing rem meters are unsuitable for high-energy accelerator facilities and can cause injuries during radiation surveys.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate the Proton Recoil Scintillator-Los Alamos (PRESCILA) as a lightweight, ergonomically superior alternative to traditional neutron rem meters.
• To assess PRESCILA's performance in terms of extended energy response, high sensitivity, and gamma rejection capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an array of ZnS(Ag) scintillators coupled via a Lucite light guide to a photomultiplier tube.
• Employed both fast and thermal scintillators for optimized energy response across various spectra.
• Leveraged the inherent pulse height advantage of proton recoils over electron tracks for detection, eliminating the need for pulse shape discrimination.

Main Results:

• PRESCILA demonstrated excellent sensitivity (40 cpm/µSv h⁻¹ for ²⁴¹AmBe) and extended energy response beyond 20 MeV.
• Achieved uniform directional response (+/-15%) and characterized linearity up to 20 mSv h⁻¹.
• Showcased effective gamma rejection in gamma fields up to 2 mSv h⁻¹.

Conclusions:

• PRESCILA is a viable, ergonomically superior alternative to traditional rem meters for diverse neutron fields.
• The technology offers improved performance characteristics, including enhanced sensitivity and extended energy range.
• PRESCILA has been successfully commercialized, indicating its practical utility and market readiness.