Computing Neutron Source Strength - Your Advice Welcome

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the neutron source strength of an Am-Be neutron source in neutrons per second. Participants suggest using the alpha decay rate of Am-241 and the macroscopic cross-section to determine the neutron source term. Amersham's Am-Be source produces approximately 2.2 x 106 neutrons per Ci, necessitating corrections for Am-241 decay based on the original source's Ci or manufacture date. Additionally, a reference to Bernard Shlein's "Handbook of Health Physics and Radiological Health" is provided for further insights.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of alpha decay rates, specifically for Am-241
  • Knowledge of macroscopic cross-sections in nuclear physics
  • Familiarity with neutron source strength calculations
  • Access to the "Handbook of Health Physics and Radiological Health" by Bernard Shlein
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the calculation methods for neutron source strength using Am-241 decay rates
  • Study the macroscopic cross-section and its role in neutron production
  • Explore the decay correction factors for Am-241 in neutron sources
  • Review the "Handbook of Health Physics and Radiological Health" for comprehensive guidelines on neutron sources
USEFUL FOR

Radiation physicists, nuclear engineers, and health physicists involved in neutron source strength calculations and safety assessments.

Stephan_doc
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Greetings to all,
I know activity for a Am-Be neutron source. I want to compute strenght source in neutrons/s. Yours advices are welcome. Thank you!
 
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Stephan_doc said:
Greetings to all,
I know activity for a Am-Be neutron source. I want to compute strenght source in neutrons/s. Yours advices are welcome. Thank you!
One could take the α decay rate of Am-241, and with knowledge of the macroscopic cross-section, including reaction efficiency, determine the n source term.

Alternatively, Amersham produces an Am-Be source of ~ 2.2 x 106 n/sec per Ci. This is the approximate value at manufacture, so one has to correct for Am-241 decay. One would have to know the Ci of Am of the original source, or the date of manufacture.
 
Thank you for answer, finally i found the solution. For example Po-210/Be neutrons-source has a yield of 70 neutrons/1milion alpha particles.
 
You need a conversion factor. Look at

Bernard Shlein, L. A. (1998). Handbook of Health Physics and Radiological Health Third Edition. Baltimore: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.

Stephan_doc said:
Greetings to all,
I know activity for a Am-Be neutron source. I want to compute strenght source in neutrons/s. Yours advices are welcome. Thank you!
 

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