Thermal neutron fluence measurement in a research reactor using thermoluminescence dosimeter TLD-600

Abstract

A thermal neutron fluence in the range between 10(11) and 10(13) n cm(-2) in the reactor core of the Tehran research reactor has been measured using TLD-600 thermoluminescence dosimeters. After a thermal treatment of 1 h at 400 degrees C followed by 20 h cooling down to room temperature of pre-exposed dosimeters in the reactor, the accumulated TL light was measured after periods of storage of 24, 48 and 72 h. The influence of the irradiation-induced damage effect on the response of TLDs and their subsequent readings has been minimized in this manner. The induced TL light due to self-activity in the TLD-600 dosimeters, which is dependent on the neutron fluence, caused a conveniently measurable TL glow curve. The induced TL in the dosimeter due to the Q-value for the beta-decay of tritium Ebeta-max = 18.6 keV has been reproduced separately by a beta source to check the proportions of radionuclides in the chip. A short theoretical treatment is also presented.

Thermoluminescence of silica-based materials irradiated by thermal neutrons

“…For example Yang et al [14] have suggested the use of CaSO 4 : Dy TL pellets embedded with a 6 Li compound for a thermal neutron measurement. Torkzadeh and Manouchehri [15] have measured the thermal neutron fluence in a research reactor using TLD-600. Pradhan and Bhatt [16] have studied the thermoluminescence response of LiF(Mg, Cu, P) and LiF TLD-100 to Thermal Neutrons, 241 Am Alphas and Gamma Rays.…”