Use of CR-39 solid state nuclear track detector in neutron personnel monitoring

Neutron sources like Am-241-Be, Pu-239-Be, Cf-252 and 14.6 MeV neutron generator arc being used in oil exploration industries as well as in research institutions. While handling these neutron sources, personnel may be exposed to neutrons. Also personnel working in reactors, accelerators may receive dose from neutrons. These exposed individuals need to be monitored regularly for measurement of neutron doses. The individual neutron doses can be estimated by using Kodak NTA films and CR-39 Solid State Nuclear Track Detector with a polyethylene radiator to increase sensitivity in front in holder. Nearly 1450 personnel are being monitored regularly throughout the country on a quarterly basis. In India, the monitoring system adopted for individual neutron dose estimation having energy from 100 keV and above is described in this paper. Background counts of 0.20 mSv could be measured with CR-39 SSNTD foil system and it has been successfully introduced for Fast Neutron Personnel Monitoring for the country. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.