A Long-Term Study of Personal Neutron Monitors in Stray Fields Around High Energy Proton Accelerators

Abstract

The results are presented of a long-term study of personal neutron monitors intended to be used in stray fields around high energy proton accelerators. The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of using the NTA emulsion, CR-39, and Makrofol (polycarbonate) as personal monitors over extended periods given the low neutron dose rates outside the biological shielding of the accelerators operated at CERN. Considering the low doses recorded, a conservative interpretation of the detector result in terms of dose equivalent is nearly always possible, thus overcoming the problems of energy response of the detectors under test. The results show that any of the track detectors can be used for the purpose of long-term monitoring, so that the final decision on the choice is based on the costs involved.