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Standard fields of old neutron sources--parameters and traceability.
Krystyna Józefowicz1, Natalia Golnik, Mieczysław Zielczyński
1Institute of Atomic Energy, 05-400 Otwock-Swierk, Poland. k.jozefowicz@cyf.gov.pl
Radiation Protection Dosimetry
|September 9, 2004
Summary
Standard neutron fields from isotope sources were assessed for 20 years. Regular checks using calibrated instruments ensure traceability and potential official recognition of these crucial radiation calibration fields.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear physics
- Radiation metrology
Background:
- Established standard neutron fields are critical for radiation calibration.
- Long-term characterization of these fields is essential for maintaining accuracy and reliability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate standard neutron fields generated by isotope sources over two decades.
- To assess the neutron emission and dose rates of americium-beryllium (Am-Be), californium-252 (Cf-252), and plutonium-beryllium (Pu-Be) sources.
- To discuss the uncertainty associated with the determined parameters.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of neutron dose equivalent and gamma dose rates using various techniques.
- Determination of neutron emission for Am-Be and Cf-252 sources in a primary standard laboratory.
- Calibration of transfer instruments in the primary laboratory for subsequent checks.
- Monitoring the neutron emission growth of a Pu-Be source used for routine calibrations.
Main Results:
- Established neutron fields from Am-Be and Cf-252 sources with determined neutron emission.
- Demonstrated neutron emission growth for the Pu-Be source over time.
- Analysis of total uncertainty for the measured parameters.
Conclusions:
- Periodically checking standard neutron fields with calibrated transfer instruments ensures traceability to primary standards.
- Consistent monitoring and verification are necessary for the official recognition of neutron calibration fields.