Development and Evaluation of Luminescent Dosimeters Sensitive to Neutrons for Advanced Applications in Albedo Dosimetry

• Grant number: 24/03350-7
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Visiting Researcher Grant - Brazil
• Start date: May 06, 2024
• End date: May 05, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Nuclear Engineering - Applications of Radioisotopes
• Principal Investigator: Linda Viola Ehlin Caldas
• Grantee: Linda Viola Ehlin Caldas
• Visiting researcher: Susana de Souza Lalic
• Visiting researcher institution: Universidade Federal de Sergipe (UFS). Centro de Ciências Exatas e Tecnologia (CCET), Brazil
• Host Institution: Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN). Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico (São Paulo - Estado). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

This work plan will address enhancements in neutron albedo dosimetry, essential for monitoring occupational and public exposures. Considering challenges associated with mixed neutron and photon fields, the study will assess protocols and the effectiveness of traditional materials in albedo dosimetry. Utilizing thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs), such as LiF:Mg,Ti and Li2B4O7, the objective is to establish optimal conditions for the safe use of these detectors in different neutron fluxes. The research will investigate new thermoluminescent (TL) and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) materials for neutron albedo dosimetry. The methodology encompasses tests under varied neutron fluxes by varying the distances between the source (241Am-Be) and the dosimeters, as well as using different sources from collaborators and the IEA-R1 nuclear reactor, assessment of responses to photons, study of dosimeter positioning on the body, and comparison with Monte Carlo simulations and other techniques. This proposal aims to significantly contribute to the reliability of albedo dosimetry in challenging environments. (AU)