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Apparent Neutron Emissions from Polyethylene Capsules during Neutron Activation and Delayed Neutron Counting

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Abstract

At Imperial College uranium is determined at very low levels in environmental samples by delayed neutron counting. High density polyethylene capsules are used for transporting the samples in a pneumatic transfer system, from the reactor, to the neutron detection rig. The detector has a background of 3.6 counts per minute, however the empty transport capsules produce 11.0 counts above the background. We have determined that neither uranium in the polyethylene or from contamination of the capsule nor 17N from the 17O(n,p)17N and 18O(n,d)17N reactions are the cause. This paper reports the results of the investigation into the source of the extra counts.

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References

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. T. H. Huxley School of Environment, Earth Sciences and Engineering, Imperial College of Science Technology and Medicine, Silwood Park, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7TE, UK

    R. Benzing

  2. T. H. Huxley School of Environment, Earth Sciences and Engineering, Imperial College of Science Technology and Medicine, Silwood Park, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7TE, UK

    N. M. Baghini, B. A. Bennett & S. J. Parry

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  1. R. Benzing
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  2. N. M. Baghini
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  3. B. A. Bennett
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  4. S. J. Parry
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Benzing, R., Baghini, N.M., Bennett, B.A. et al. Apparent Neutron Emissions from Polyethylene Capsules during Neutron Activation and Delayed Neutron Counting. Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry 244, 447–451 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1006776718263

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1006776718263

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