Radiation detection in a marine environment

摘要

We have performed radiation detection measurements to explore the feasibility of radioisotopic analysis and detection of a neutron source in a marine environment. We determined the maximum range in seawater through which complex $gamma@-ray emitting materials could be accurately assayed for isotopic content. Additionally we used the gamma rays from neutron capture on chlorine to detect a neutron source. Results from our experiments have been used to determine the greatest distance at which the presence of a neutron emitter can be confirmed. The measurements used an electromechanically-cooled high-purity germanium detector system in both laboratory and fielded seawater conditions. The laboratory experiments used a variety of sources in an arrangement where both the source and detector were surrounded by seawater. The field experiments were performed underwater with the detector in a sealed container that was separate from the source.