Preliminary results on bubble detector as personal neutron dosemeter

Area of Science:

• Nuclear instrumentation
• Radiation detection and measurement

Background:

• Bubble detectors are suitable for neutron dose rate measurements in high-intensity gamma fields.
• Practical challenges include immobilizing volatile liquids in a superheated state and achieving uniform droplet distribution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a compact, reusable bubble detector with high neutron sensitivity.
• To overcome practical challenges in immobilizing and distributing superheated droplets.

Main Methods:

• Developed a bubble detector by immobilizing superheated droplets in a polymer matrix.
• Created two types: one with isobutane for fast neutrons, another with Freon-12 for fast and thermal neutrons.
• Tested detector performance using a 5 Ci Americium-Beryllium (Am-Be) neutron source.

Main Results:

• Successfully developed compact and reusable bubble detectors.
• Achieved high neutron sensitivity by immobilizing droplets in a polymer matrix.
• Demonstrated functionality for both fast and thermal neutron detection.

Conclusions:

• The developed bubble detector is a viable option for neutron dose rate measurements.
• The polymer matrix immobilization technique effectively addresses previous practical challenges.
• The detector shows promise for applications in mixed radiation fields.