Design and simulation of a neutron facility

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Engineering
• Radiation Shielding
• Health Physics

Background:

• Regulatory bodies mandate radiation dose limits for areas surrounding particle accelerator facilities.
• Facilities housing particle accelerators must restrict public access if dose equivalent rates exceed 0.02 mSv/h at 5 cm from accessible walls.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a radiation shielding solution for a facility housing two Deuterium-Tritium (D-T) and one Deuterium-Deuterium (D-D) neutron generators.
• To ensure that surrounding areas can be considered unrestricted for public access.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport code (MCNP5) for radiation transport simulations.
• Simulated various shielding designs to identify the most effective and practical solution.

Main Results:

• A small concrete cave design was identified as the optimal solution for shielding the neutron generators.
• This design successfully meets regulatory requirements, allowing for unrestricted public access to surrounding areas.
• Implemented safety measures including light curtains, warning lights, and door interlocks to prevent unauthorized access.

Conclusions:

• The proposed concrete cave shielding design is effective for housing D-T and D-D neutron generators.
• The design ensures compliance with radiation safety regulations, enabling unrestricted public access.
• Integrated access control systems enhance facility safety and security.