Radiation surveys of the Naval Postgraduate School LINAC

Abstract

The NPS LINAC was initially designed for use in radiation damage and nuclear structure studies. The LINAC's role has subsequently evolved to include research in a variety of other areas such as the generation of coherent microwave, optical, and x- radiation. The use of high energy electrons produces a radiation environment for which personnel and equipment safety must be addressed. It is the purpose of this study to measure the radiation levels in the areas surrounding the LINAC and to identify the sources of that radiation. A guide is provided for the installation of additional supplemental shielding for the LINAC to further reduce radiation levels in areas occupied by personnel. Primary conclusions of this study are that the radiation levels produced by the linear accelerator are below statutory limits, and that a neutron energy correction factor different than currently used should be used for personnel dosimetry at the NPS LINAC. This will result in the reduction of the TLD measured neutron dose evaluation for personnel

The NPS LINAC was initially designed for use in radiation damage and nuclear structure studies. The LINAC's role has subsequently evolved to include research in a variety of other areas such as the generation of coherent microwave, optical, and xradiation. The use of high energy electrons produces a radiation environment for which personnel and equipment safety must be addressed. It is the purpose of this study to measure the radiation levels in the areas surrounding the LINAC and to identify the sources of that radiation. A guide is provided for the installation of additional supplemental shielding for the LINAC to further reduce radiation levels in areas occupied by personnel. Primary conclusions of this study are that the radiation levels produced by the linear accelerator are below statutory limits, and that a neutron energy correction factor different than currently used should be used for personnel dosimetry at the NPS LINAC. This will result in the reduction of the TLD measured neutron dose evaluation for personnel.