Detecting low intensity neutron radiation

In summary, the conversation discusses the practicality of detecting a neutron source with an intensity of 0.1 Bq and each neutron having nearly 10MeV energies, and differentiating it from background neutron radiation. It is suggested to use plastic scintillation detector systems with pulse height and shaping discrimination capabilities, or proton recoil pulse chambers, to measure the pulse height of the recoil protons of neutrons colliding with hydrogen nuclei and discriminate between slow and fast neutrons as well as gamma rays. These equipment options may be available commercially but could also be custom made and will likely be expensive.
  • #1
Garlic
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Hello everyone,
Is it practically possible to detect a neutron source with an intensity of 0.1 Bq and each neutron having nearly 10MeV energies (and differentiate it from background neutron radiation)? If that's possible, what kind of equipment can be used? Do you need extremely sensitive and expensive specialised equipments or are basic neutron detectors capable of detecting it?
 
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  • #2
You didn't say if you need to discriminate gamma rays. I do not know what you mean by basic neutron detectors but slow neutrons are easier to measure.and more sensitive but I think "basic" neutron detectors will not be satisfactory for your needs.

You might consider starting with a plastic scintillation detector system with pulse height and shaping discrimination capabilities. They can have decent efficiencies for low count rate measurements. These might be available commercially. Another possibility is a proton recoil pulse chamber. You will be measuring the pulse height of the recoil protons of neutrons colliding with hydrogen nuclei. You can discriminate between slow and fast neutrons as well as gamma rays. I do not know if such chambers are commercially available or must be custom made. Such equipment will not be cheap.
 
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  • #3
Thank you, this helps a lot.
 

1. What is low intensity neutron radiation?

Low intensity neutron radiation refers to a type of radiation that emits low levels of neutrons. Neutrons are particles found in the nucleus of an atom and can cause damage to living cells if exposed to high levels. Low intensity neutron radiation is typically found in nuclear power plants, research reactors, and medical facilities.

2. How is low intensity neutron radiation detected?

Low intensity neutron radiation can be detected using specialized equipment such as neutron detectors, which can measure the number of neutrons present in a given area. These detectors can be portable or fixed and use different methods such as gas-filled tubes or solid-state detectors to detect neutrons.

3. What are the potential health effects of low intensity neutron radiation?

Exposure to low intensity neutron radiation can have various health effects depending on the duration and intensity of exposure. Some potential effects include skin burns, nausea, vomiting, and damage to the bone marrow, which can lead to an increased risk of developing cancer. However, the risk of these effects is low at low intensity levels.

4. How can low intensity neutron radiation be minimized or controlled?

To minimize or control exposure to low intensity neutron radiation, proper safety measures should be in place. This includes using shielding materials to reduce the amount of radiation, monitoring radiation levels regularly, and following safety protocols when working with radioactive materials. It is also important to undergo proper training and follow safety procedures when working with low intensity neutron radiation.

5. What are some applications of detecting low intensity neutron radiation?

Detecting low intensity neutron radiation has various applications in different fields such as nuclear power, medical imaging, and scientific research. It is used to monitor and control nuclear reactions in power plants, to diagnose and treat certain health conditions in medical facilities, and to study the properties of materials in scientific research. It is also used in security measures, such as detecting the presence of nuclear materials in transportation and cargo.

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