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Distribution of Thermal Neutrons in a Soil-Water System

Journal Article · · Soil Science
The distribution of thermal neutrons from a point source of fast neutrons was measured in a 3-foot diameter by 3foot-high barrel as a function of the soil-moisture content on a volume basis. From these data an empirical mathematical expression was determined relating count rate to moisture content. The effects of soil moisture interfaces on the count rate were measured, using a 55-gallon barrel atop another and placing homogeneous soils of different moisture contents in each barrel. In all cases the neutron count rate was biased by the proximity of the wetier soil, but, when the BF/sub 3/ tube was partially shielded with cadmium, the effect of the moisture interface was greatly reduced. Measurements of moisture interfaces when the bottom barrel was filled with water and the top barrel with soils of various moisture contents demonstrated the effect of neutrons eseaping from or being reflected by a surface.
Research Organization:
Univ. of California, Davis
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
NSA Number:
NSA-16-009424
OSTI ID:
4806328
Journal Information:
Soil Science, Journal Name: Soil Science Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 93; ISSN 0038-075X
Country of Publication:
Country unknown/Code not available
Language:
English

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