ASTM E496-02 - 10.6.2002
 
1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers a general procedure for the measurement of the fast-neutron fluence rate produced by neutron generators utilizing the 3H(d,n)4He reaction. Neutrons so produced are usually referred to as 14-MeV neutrons, but range in energy depending on a number of factors. This test method does not adequately cover fusion sources where the velocity of the plasma may be an important consideration.

1.2 This test method uses threshold activation reactions to determine the average energy of the neutrons and the neutron fluence at that energy. At least three activities, chosen from an appropriate set of dosimetry reactions, are required to characterize the average energy and fluence. The required activities are typically measured by gamma ray spectroscopy.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

 
2. Referenced Documents

E261-16(2021)

Standard Practice for Determining Neutron Fluence, Fluence Rate, and Spectra by Radioactivation Techniques

E170-23

Standard Terminology Relating to Radiation Measurements and Dosimetry

E720-23

Standard Guide for Selection and Use of Neutron Sensors for Determining Neutron Spectra Employed in Radiation-Hardness Testing of Electronics

E265-15(2020)

Standard Test Method for Measuring Reaction Rates and Fast-Neutron Fluences by Radioactivation of Sulfur-32

Technical Note 1297

Guidelines for Evaluating and Expressing the Uncertainty of NIST Measurement Results

ICRU Report 13

Neutron Fluence, Neutron Spectra and Kerma

E181-23

Standard Guide for Detector Calibration and Analysis of Radionuclides in Radiation Metrology for Reactor Dosimetry

Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement

ICRU Report 26

Neutron Dosimetry for Biology and Medicine