19 research outputs found
Gamma radiation protection factor of building materials–Validation of wall reflections from measurements
774-777The gamma radiation (INR and fallout radiations
using 60Co and 137Cs sources, respectively) protection
factors for 150 cm of soil (density=1.5 g/cc) followed by 21.5 cm specially
prepared concrete (density=2.7 g/cc) have been estimated. Since the
measurements are not amenable for such large thickness due to significant
contributions from the scattered radiation, experiments are carried out for
varying thickness and results are corroborated by Monte
Carlo calculations. After ascertaining the calculated accuracy,
the protection factors are deduced by Monte Carlo
calculations. Simulations could reasonably predict the measurements within a
factor of 2 for all the cases measured. It is inferred from the simulations
that the dose contributions due to reflected radiations from the wall are
significant when the material thickness exceeds 45.5 cm soil plus 21.5 cm
concrete. Further, materials have been evaluated against fast neutrons using 252Cf
source
Radiological safety aspects in Californium-252 source transfer operation
798-801The
methodology, radiological safety planning and technical experiences gained
during the transfer of 1 mg of 252Cf neutron source from transport
container to exposure facility have been reported. Hot mockups with dummy
sources and radiation safety planning in advance have been observed as the main
contributing factor in personal dose reduction and to increase the confidence
level in radioactive source transfer in open condition. The doses received by
the personnel during this procedure are in the range 0.15-0.30 mSv, which are
well within the planned dose limit during operation (5 mSv). No accidental or
emergency situation had arisen during the course of this task. Before any new
high strength source expected to arrive in any institution, a full-scale mockup
should be performed to ensure all members of the work team to understand their
parts in the operation. Minimum possible persons should be involved in source
transfer. Too many minds at a time should not be applied in such a hazardous
operation. There should be only one supervisor at the site and no one except
the supervisor should be allowed to give instructions and suggestions during
the source loading or transfer procedure. Only expert and experienced radiation
safety personnel with high confidence level should undertake such operations.
All technical aspects and challenges faced during the source transfer have been
highlighted