Feasibility study of 3D gamma imaging for improving radiological protection at Sizewell B nuclear power plant

Abstract

Nuclear power plants are continuously looking to optimise their radiological monitoring and visualization techniques. At Sizewell B nuclear power plant in the UK, a trial was carried out to judge the feasibility of a gamma imaging system to provide accurate visual representation and characterisation of source terms on an operational pressurized water reactor. Data was collected through a series of scans taken in two rooms within a radiological controlled area at Sizewell B and used to generate radiation “heat maps”. This survey type supports As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) (UK equivalent to ALARA) working in areas with high general area dose rate by gathering radiometric data and generating intuitive visual characterisation of work area source terms.