Comparison of Methods to Determine the Fluence of Monoenergetic Neutrons in the Energy Range from 30 keV to 14.8 MeV

TL;DR

This paper compares different methods for measuring neutron fluence across a broad energy range, aiming to improve accuracy and efficiency in routine measurements at PTB.

Contribution

It introduces new analysis procedures and improved characterization of transfer instruments for neutron fluence measurement, enhancing traceability and operational efficiency.

Findings

Transfer instrument characterization improved

New analysis procedures developed

Enhanced traceability of neutron fluence measurements

Abstract

The primary reference instruments for neutron fluence measurements used at the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) are based on the primary standard for neutron measurements which is the differential neutron-proton scattering cross section. Such instruments require considerable effort for their operation and analysis. Therefore, routine measurements are carried out using a transfer instrument to facilitate the efficient provision of services to customers. A series of measurements was conducted to compare the transfer device to the primary reference instruments and ensure the traceability of neutron fluence measurements. This resulted in an improved characterization of the instrument and new analysis procedures.