Personnel neutron dose assessment upgrade: Volume 1, Personnel neutron dosimetry assessment: (Final report)

Abstract

Neutron dosimetry is an essential part of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) personnel dosimetry program. Historically, nuclear track emulsion dosimeters and thermoluminescent-albedo dosimeters (TLDs) have been used for neutron dosimetry at DOE facilities. Both dosimeters have energy dependent responses requiring accurate knowledge of the neutron energy spectra to properly interpret their results. Until recently. technology difficulties precluded the rapid assessment of neutron spectra necessary to accurately interpret dosimetry results. Thus, dosimetry analysts have used a conservative approach in estimating neutron dose by assuming the existence of high energy neutrons wherein maximum quality factors are used in the conversion of neutron absorbed dose to rem. To improve the state of art of neutron dose assessment and to respond to the need for enhanced accuracy dictated by recent changes to the neutron quality factor, the DOE Office of Nuclear Safety has sponsored research over the past eight years to enhance neutron measurement techniques. This effort has been coordinated among DOE contractors with a goal of providing the most effective system. Results of this effort are being reported in a three Upgrade (PNL-6620).