A new, passive dosemeter for gamma, beta and neutron radiations

Area of Science:

• Radiation detection and measurement
• Dosimetry
• Nuclear science and engineering

Background:

• The UK Ministry of Defence requires reliable personal radiation dosimetry.
• Existing dosimetry methods may not cover all radiation types encountered.
• The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) sought to improve radiation monitoring capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate the Dstl Combined Dosemeter.
• To present laboratory type testing results for the new dosemeter.
• To describe calibration procedures for workplace neutron fields.

Main Methods:

• Development of a dosemeter integrating thermoluminescent and etched-track detectors.
• Laboratory type testing to assess performance against relevant requirements.
• Development and description of a calibration procedure for neutron dosimetry.

Main Results:

• The Dstl Combined Dosemeter successfully passed laboratory type testing.
• The dosemeter accurately assesses doses from photons, beta particles, and neutrons.
• Neutron dose measurements were within 50% of the true dose in diverse workplace environments.

Conclusions:

• The Dstl Combined Dosemeter meets type test requirements for its intended applications.
• The dosemeter provides reliable neutron dose assessment across various spectra.
• This technology enhances personal radiation dosimetry for military applications.