Neutron source strength verification via reaction rate measurement and Monte Carlo simulation.

Determining the neutron source strength is essential to ensure optimal use of the source and to implement adequate radiation protection measures. In this study, the source strength of two (α ,n) neutron sources – a newly acquired 185 GBq 241AmBe and a legacy source 74 GBq 239PuBe – were verified. Source strength verification was performed by measuring the induced activities in irradiated 115In foils and comparing the results to MCNP calculated reaction rates. The results for 241AmBe agree well with a maximum and average deviations of 8.1% and 4.1%, respectively. While for 239PuBe the maximum deviation is 11.7% and the average deviation is 6.3%. Results of this study provide a reliable reference for the application of the sources, in particular, for the 241AmBe which is used as the external neutron source of the PRR1-Subcritical Assembly for Training, Education, and Research (PRR1-SATER), and for the design of a neutron irradiator that will repurpose the 239PuBe. • The source strengths of two (α,n) neutron sources, 241AmBe and 239PuBe were verified through foil activation and Monte Carlo simulation. • Calculated reaction rates and measured saturation activities for the 241AmBe neutron source agree well, with an average deviation of 4.1%. • For the legacy 239PuBe neutron source, calculated and measured results have an average deviation of 5.3%. • The study provides a reliable reference for determining neutron source strength to facilitate efficient utilization of the source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]