Evaluation of Bubble Dosimeter Response to Neutron Radiation.

摘要

Because of the growing concern over the consequences of neutron radiation, the U.S. Navy is seeking an enhanced capability of neutron dose measurement. Current dosimetry systems have highly non-linear responses, which can lead to under and over-response, depending on the neutron spectrum. The bubble dosimeter, which has recently been developed, appears to have strong potential because of its nearly linear energy response over a wide energy range. The bubble dosimeter is also capable of measuring smaller neutron doses than current devices. However, very little information is available on the performance of bubble dosimetry measurement systems. Using radiation sources at the Naval Academy, bubble dosimeters and spectrometers were irradiated under a variety of conditions. The sources used included Cf252, Pu-Be, and a 14 MeV neutron generator. Results were obtained on the rate of bubble growth, detector lifetime, statistical behavior, and usefulness as a spectrometer. An evaluation of a computer enhanced optical system were also made between the bubble dosimeter and other currently accepted means of neutron dose measurement, such as the neutron rem-meter (A/N-PDR-70), NE-213, TEPC, TLD, and CR-39. The studies found that the bubble dosimeter maintains constant sensitivity over 21 use cycles. The bubble dosimeter shows promise for naval dosimetry applications. (kr)