Modification of ROSPEC to cover neutrons from thermal to 18 MeV

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics
• Spectroscopy
• Radiation Detection

Background:

• The Rotating Spectrometer (ROSPEC) is a neutron spectrometer established in 1992.
• It utilizes gas proportional counters to measure neutron energy distributions and provide neutron dosimetry.
• Original ROSPEC operated within the 50 keV-4.5 MeV range.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the neutron energy measurement capabilities of the ROSPEC.
• To extend the operational range of ROSPEC to lower and higher neutron energies.
• To improve the accuracy and applicability of neutron dosimetry.

Main Methods:

• Incorporated two 2-inch Helium-3 (3He) counters to detect epithermal and thermal neutrons.
• Developed an optional scintillation spectrometer to extend the upper energy limit.
• Maintained the original gas proportional counters for intermediate energy ranges.

Main Results:

• Successfully extended the ROSPEC's detection range down to thermal neutron energies.
• Enabled measurements up to 18 MeV with the optional scintillation spectrometer.
• Maintained accurate neutron energy distribution measurements and dosimetry.

Conclusions:

• The upgraded ROSPEC offers a significantly expanded neutron energy spectrum coverage.
• The instrument provides a versatile and accurate tool for neutron dosimetry and energy distribution analysis.
• Continued upgrades ensure ROSPEC's relevance in neutron measurement applications.