Composite damage track-albedo personnel neutron dosimeter for general use

No known detector or series of detectors in personnel neutron dosimeters have correct dose equivalent energy-dependence. Useful dosimeter performance is assumed by calibrating dosimeters for the exposure spectrum. This method implies that the exposure spectrum will be constant within a given facility or the wearer will not be exposed to different spectra in other areas. Since exposure spectra are known to vary widely a composite damage track-albedo personnel neutron dosimeter was developed to separately respond to the softer and more energetic parts of various spectra. The relationships of the responses of the elements vary with different spectra and are used to convert dosimeter readings to dose equivalent. Measurements indicate that dose equivalent deviation was less than approximately 50 percent for unshielded lucite and steel shielded HPRR spectra, monoenergetic spectra from 4.7 to 15 MeV, a $sup 252$Cf spontaneous neutron spectrum and an AmBe spectrum. Dosimeter sensitivity was similar to present NTA film methods. The composite personnel neutron dosimeter was also tested with calculated spectra by simulating badge response through known energy-dependence of the badge elements. Dose equivalent deviation was less than approximately 20 percent for 19 significantly different assumed spectra. Thus, the experimental and calculational results support adherence to the dose equivalent for common exposure spectra. (auth)