Radiation hazards in PF-1000 plasma generator fusion research

Abstract

Fusion research poses significant radiation hazards, including prompt as well as delayed exposures. Prompt radiation consists of deeply penetrating neutrons and gamma rays, whereas delayed exposure derives from nuclear decays that were previously activated by neutrons. The PF-1000 plasma focus device, a dense magnetized plasma generator, is a source of all of these radiation hazards. The aim here is to assess the delayed radiation hazard of the PF-1000 device to the operational crew and research scientists.

Radiation hazards in PF-1000 plasma generator fusion research (part 2)

“…Basing on the dependence of H*(10) n on a particular discharge and the annual neutron yield [2,3], the annual ambient dose equivalent was estimated for the particular positions over the period from 2001 to 2013. The final values of effective doses correspond to the situation where personnel are situated in the specific positions during all realized discharges [4,6].…”

“…We have already reported on the radiation safety challenges posed by the release of electromagnetic ionizing radiation, and by neutron activation of surrounding materials in the facility [2][3][4][5][6]. In this study we aimed to characterize the radiation hazard posed to personnel by neutron streams by the PF-1000.…”

Radiation hazards in PF-1000 plasma generator fusion research (part 3)

“…We have already reported on the radiation safety challenges posed by the release of electromagnetic ionizing radiation, and by neutron activation of surrounding materials in the facility [ 2 – 6 ]. In this study we aimed to characterize the radiation hazard posed to personnel by neutron streams by the PF-1000.…”