Note: Neutron shutter for Kolkata superconducting cyclotron

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics
• Accelerator Technology
• Radiation Protection

Background:

• Experimental areas in particle accelerator facilities require isolation from active accelerator zones using radiation shielding.
• Neutron shutters are critical components for mitigating secondary radiation, particularly neutrons, in experimental areas.
• Existing shutters aim to reduce radiation to permissible levels, enabling access to experimental zones.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate a novel neutron shutter with improved compactness.
• To evaluate the radiation attenuation capabilities of the new neutron shutter design.
• To ensure the shutter effectively reduces secondary radiation to permissible limits.

Main Methods:

• Design and fabrication of a new compact neutron shutter.
• Utilizing the Monte Carlo radiation transport code FLUKA for simulation.
• Evaluating the attenuation of secondary radiations, including neutrons.

Main Results:

• The newly designed neutron shutter features a compact form factor, significantly reducing length, surface area, and volume.
• FLUKA simulations demonstrated substantial attenuation of diffused secondary radiations.
• The shutter's performance ensures radiation levels are well within permissible limits.

Conclusions:

• The novel compact neutron shutter design meets the requirements for effective secondary radiation reduction.
• This design offers practical advantages in terms of space and material usage.
• The developed neutron shutter enhances safety and accessibility in particle accelerator experimental areas.