Liquid Scintillation Counter w/ fast neutron detectin isotop

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the construction and optimization of a Liquid Scintillation Counter (LSC) utilizing U-238 in a scintillating cocktail for detecting fast neutrons emitted from a Cf-252 source. The expected emission wavelength from the scintillator is approximately 350 nm. Key considerations include calculating light collection efficiency and the number of photoelectrons reaching the photocathode, with the setup involving a 1.5 in x 1.5 in scintillator vial coupled to a photomultiplier tube (PMT) using optical grease.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Liquid Scintillation Counting (LSC) techniques
  • Familiarity with photomultiplier tube (PMT) operation
  • Knowledge of neutron detection methods, specifically fast neutron detection
  • Basic principles of scintillation and light emission
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for calculating light collection efficiency in scintillation detectors
  • Learn about the properties and applications of U-238 in neutron detection
  • Investigate the use of optical grease in enhancing PMT performance
  • Explore the design and geometry considerations for effective scintillator and PMT alignment
USEFUL FOR

Researchers and engineers involved in radiation detection, nuclear physics, and instrumentation development, particularly those focusing on neutron detection and scintillation techniques.

Priyo
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I'm trying to make a LSC with U-238 (non-aqueous form) dipped in the scintillating cocktail to detect fast neutrons (no thermals or epithermals, only fast) from a Cf-252 source. How do I calculate the wavelength emerging from the cocktail (assuming U-238 does not react with the cocktail)? Also, how do I calculate the light collection efficiency, and the number of photoelectrons hitting the photocathode?

All the help that I can get, much much appreciated!
 
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Does one know the expect emissions from the scintillator?

Does one have a spectrometer or access to one?

What is the geometry of the source with respect to the scintillator, and of the scintillator to the PM detector?
 
Thanks for your reply!

The expect emissions are about 350 nm wavelength.

I have access to The PMT, oscilloscope, counter/timer.

The source is Cf-252, in a reactor beam port, and the scintillator is a 1.5 in X 1.5 in diameter vial, attached with optical grease to a photo multiplier tube.
 

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