Dimensions of radiation detector and range of secondary particles

In summary, neutron detectors are manufactured to be smaller than the range of secondary charged particles from gamma interactions, so that the detector can produce a neutron only spectrum.
  • #1
mitch_1211
99
1
Hi All,

Just reading up on methods of neutron detection and something struck me. Generally these types of detectors are manufactured small enough so the the ranges of the charged particles (usually tritium and alpha) are smaller than the dimensions (so around 100microns or so). This means that the detector is smaller than the range of secondary charged particles created from gamma interactions (typically millimetre range), which is desirable to produce a neutron only spectrum.

I wondered what happened when an electron is generated from a gamma interaction and it goes along its track and reaches the edge of the detector (which is much smaller than its mean free path). Does it simply escape as beta radiation?

The detector in this case is a glass fibre scintillator with Li6 dopant.

Mitch
 
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  • #2
. </code>Yes, the electron will escape as beta radiation in this scenario. The glass fiber scintillator has a much smaller range than the gamma interaction mean free path, so the electrons will not be able to reach the edge of the detector and will instead be absorbed in the material before reaching the edge. This is why neutron detectors are usually designed to be smaller than the range of secondary charged particles created from gamma interactions.
 

1. What are the dimensions of a radiation detector?

The dimensions of a radiation detector can vary depending on the type and purpose of the detector. Generally, detectors used in laboratory settings are small and portable, while those used in industrial or medical settings may be larger. The size of the detector also depends on the type and energy of the radiation being detected.

2. How does the range of secondary particles affect the effectiveness of a radiation detector?

The range of secondary particles, such as electrons or photons, can affect the effectiveness of a radiation detector. If the detector is not designed to detect particles with a longer range, it may not accurately measure the radiation levels. This is why it is important to select a detector with the appropriate range for the type of radiation being monitored.

3. Can a radiation detector measure the range of secondary particles?

Yes, some radiation detectors are designed to measure the range of secondary particles. These detectors typically use a scintillation material that produces light when struck by secondary particles, allowing for their detection and measurement. Other types of detectors, such as ionization chambers, may not directly measure the range of secondary particles, but can still detect their presence.

4. What is the ideal range of secondary particles for a radiation detector?

The ideal range of secondary particles for a radiation detector depends on the application and type of radiation being detected. For example, a detector used for medical imaging may need to detect particles with a longer range to produce clearer images. On the other hand, a detector used for personal dosimetry may only need to detect particles with a short range to measure exposure levels.

5. How do scientists calibrate the range of secondary particles for a radiation detector?

Scientists use a variety of methods to calibrate the range of secondary particles for a radiation detector. This can include exposing the detector to known sources of radiation and measuring its response, or using mathematical models to predict the range based on the detector's physical properties. Calibration is important to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the detector's measurements.

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