A Combined Neutron and Gamma-Ray Multiplicity Counter Based on Liquid Scintillation Detectors

Journal Article · Sat Oct 01 00:00:00 EDT 2011 · Nuclear Instruments and Methods A

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nima.2010.10.071· OSTI ID:1027875

Enqvist, Andreas; Flaska, Marek; Dolan, Jennifer; Chichester, David L; Pozzi, Sara A

Multiplicity counters for neutron assay have been extensively used in materials control and accountability for nonproliferation and nuclear safeguards. Typically, neutron coincidence counters are utilized in these fields. In this work, we present a measurement system that makes use not only of neutron (n) multiplicity counting but also of gamma-ray (g) multiplicity counting and the combined higher-order multiples containing both neutrons and gamma rays. The benefit of this approach is in using both particle types available from the sample, leading to a reduction in measurement times needed when using more measurables. We present measurement results of n, g, nn, ng, gg, nnn, nng, ngg, and ggg multiples emitted by Mixed-Oxide (MOX) samples measured at Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The MOX measurement is compared to initial validation of the detection system done using a 252Cf source. The dual radiation measuring system proposed here uses extra measurables to improve the statistics when compared to a neutron-only system and allows for extended analysis and interpretation of sample parameters. New challenges such as the effect of very high intrinsic gamma-ray sources in the case of MOX samples is discussed. Successful measurements of multiples rates can be performed also when using high-Z shielding.

• Research Organization: Idaho National Lab. (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: DOE - NE
• DOE Contract Number: DE-AC07-05ID14517
• OSTI ID: 1027875
• Report Number(s): INL/JOU-10-19164; TRN: US1105285
• Journal Information: Nuclear Instruments and Methods A, Vol. 652, Issue 1; ISSN 0168-9002
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
DETECTION
LIQUID SCINTILLATION DETECTORS
MULTIPLICITY
NEUTRONS
PROLIFERATION
RADIATIONS
SAFEGUARDS
SHIELDING
STATISTICS
VALIDATION
INEEL
coincidences
liquid scintillator detectors
multiplicity counting
nuclear nonproliferation
pulse shape discrimination