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Neutron Flux Intercomparison at NBS
Kenneth C Duvall1, Michael M Meier1, Oren A Wasson1
1Center for Radiation Research, National Bureau of Standards, Washington, DC 20234.
Journal of Research of the National Bureau of Standards (1977)
|September 27, 2021
Summary
The National Bureau of Standards compared neutron flux measurement techniques using two detectors. Results provide crucial data for international standards in neutron metrology.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear physics
- Metrology
- Neutron detection
Background:
- Accurate neutron flux measurements are critical for nuclear applications and research.
- International intercomparisons ensure consistency and accuracy of standards across laboratories.
- The National Bureau of Standards (NBS) participated in a BIPM-sponsored neutron flux intercomparison.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the efficiencies of two neutron transfer detectors.
- To compare NBS measurements with those from other international standards laboratories.
- To validate measurement techniques for neutron flux intercomparisons.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a gas-filled Helium-3 (3He) proportional counter and a Boron-10 Trifluoride (BF3) counter in a polyethylene sphere.
- Determined detector efficiencies at specific neutron energies (250 keV and 560 keV).
- Employed an NBS "black" detector for flux monitoring and a secondary BF3 counter for normalization due to detector shadowing.
Main Results:
- Reported the determined efficiencies for both the 3He and BF3 detectors.
- Quantified the performance of the transfer instruments at the specified neutron energies.
- Provided comparative data against results from other participating standards laboratories.
Conclusions:
- The study successfully determined and reported detector efficiencies for neutron flux intercomparison.
- The results contribute to the international standardization of neutron metrology.
- Validated NBS participation and measurement capabilities within the BIPM framework.