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Neutron Radiography and Computed Tomography of Biological Systems at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory's High Flux Isotope Reactor
Published on: May 7, 2021
Cosmic radiation dose in aircraft--a neutron track etch detector
B Vuković1, V Radolić, I Miklavcić
1Department of Physics, University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, P.O. Box 125, Gajev trg 6, Croatia.
Journal of Environmental Radioactivity
|June 30, 2007
Summary
High-altitude cosmic radiation, a mix of particles, poses risks to aircrew. Neutron radiation significantly contributes to the total dose, with lower doses observed near the equator due to geomagnetic effects.
Area of Science:
- Space physics
- Radiation biology
- Aviation safety
Background:
- Aircraft fly within the Earth's atmosphere, exposed to complex cosmic radiation.
- This radiation comprises galactic and solar particles, creating a mixed field of photons, electrons, positrons, and neutrons.
- Understanding this radiation is crucial for assessing occupational health risks for aircrew.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure the cosmic radiation dose aboard ATR 42 and A 320 aircraft.
- To differentiate and quantify the contributions of neutron and non-neutron radiation components.
- To estimate the occupational effective dose for flight crews.
Main Methods:
- Utilized TLD-100 (LiF:Mg,Ti) detectors and Mini 6100 semiconductor dosimeters for non-neutron dose measurement.
- Employed LR-115 track detectors with boron converters for neutron dose measurements.
- Conducted measurements on intercontinental flights at altitudes of 8-11 km.
Main Results:
- The non-neutron component dose was measured on ATR 42 and A 320 aircraft.
- An estimated occupational effective dose of 1.64 mSv per year for A 320 crew (500 h/year).
- Neutron radiation accounted for approximately 50% of the total cosmic radiation dose.
- Lower dose rates were recorded on flights near the equator, consistent with the geomagnetic latitude effect.
Conclusions:
- Neutron radiation is a significant contributor to the total cosmic radiation dose at flight altitudes.
- Occupational exposure for aircrew warrants careful consideration and monitoring.
- Geomagnetic latitude influences radiation dose rates, with equatorial regions experiencing lower exposure.
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