Etching and optical properties of 1-2 MeV alpha particles irradiated CR-39 radiation detectors

Author(s)

Pires, K. C. C. ; Assuncao, M. ; Rana, M. A. ; Guedes, S. ; Kunzel, R. ; Trindade, N. M.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: NUCLEAR INSTRUMENTS & METHODS IN PHYSICS RESEARCH SECTION A-ACCELERATORS SP; v. 1041, p. 8-pg., 2022-08-27.

Abstract

A comparison of track etch parameters at low energy alpha particles is presented, using the Lantrak and the Baryotrak CR-39 nuclear track detectors. Experimental data from literature, obtained through exposing CR-39 detectors at low energy alpha particles from a Am-241 source and, subsequently, etching them in NaOH, KOH, and NaOH+ethyl alcohol aqueous solutions at 70 degrees C and 80 degrees C, have been numerically analyzed here. Radial etch rates of alpha particle etch pits have been determined, compared, and critically discussed for both CR-39 types. Ratios of alpha etch pit diameters and etch pit densities have also been examined as a function of etching time, showing no notable differences in the comparison between these two detectors. This study has been extended from the structural point of view by performing new Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) and Raman spectroscopy measurements on non-irradiated, alpha-irradiated and alpha-irradiated/etched Lantrak and Baryotrak detectors. The direct band-gap energies have been determined and no significant differences have been observed in detectors subjected to different conditions. The Raman spectra show that the CH2 functional group has been decreased when comparing the non-irradiated/alpha-irradiated and alpha-irradiated/etched detectors, suggesting a degradation of the detectors due to alpha particle irradiation and also due to the different chemical etching treatments applied. The uncertainties have been determined and reported along with the results. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/07767-1 - Nuclear reactions with weakly-bound or cluster-structured radioactive and stable nuclei
• Grantee: Leandro Romero Gasques
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 18/05982-0 - R&D&I in radiation metrology in the health area
• Grantee: Linda Viola Ehlin Caldas
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 19/05915-3 - Characterization of minerals for luminescent dosimetry of ionizing radiations
• Grantee: Neilo Marcos Trindade
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants