Neutron Detection Instrumentation for Nuclear Decommissioning Applications

Gamage, K.A.A. (2019) Neutron Detection Instrumentation for Nuclear Decommissioning Applications. 3rd International Conference on Nuclear Power Plants: Structures, Risk & Decommissioning, London, UK, 10-11 Jun 2019.

Abstract

Increased use of nuclear materials in nuclear power generation and other nuclear technologies has prompted a significantly increased demand for fast and accurate radiation detection systems. Conversely, having fast and reliable detection, location and identification nuclear instruments are key to reduce nuclear decommissioning cost and to accelerate the processes. In nuclear decommissioning, neutron detection systems are often based on He-3 filled gas proportional counters, but He-3 reserve is nearly depleted. Detecting neutron and gamma sources in such uncharacterised environment is challenging, due to a range of variations and complexity in radiation profiles, detectors characteristics and temporal pulse patterns, and array configuration. In this paper, we present the results of a small scale, easily deployable mixed-field coded-aperture imaging system, which can detect and discriminate both neutrons and gamma rays. Fast and reliable detection, location and identification can also improve the public acceptance of nuclear technology, prevent nuclear terrorism, safeguard the society, and help support the increasing utilisation of nuclear technology in the UK and globally.

• Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Gamage, Professor Kelum
• Authors: Gamage, K.A.A.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Systems Power and Energy