Neutron and gamma-ray radiation fields characterisation in an 241Am-Be irradiator in view of its use as reserach tool

Introduction A neutron irradiation facility based on four 241Am–Be sources, activity of 1.11·1011 Bq each (yield ~7.0 ·106 n s-1), consisting in four source-channels and an irradiation channel placed in a tank filled with light water both as moderator and biological shielding, was realized at DEIM Department. The aim of this work is to evaluate neutron and gamma fluxes in several points inside the irradiation channel, in view of its use as a testing tool in various research activities. For this goal, an experimental measurement campaign was started also to validate Monte Carlo (MCNP5 code) simulation results. Methods Experimental measurements of neutron radiation fields (fast and thermal) w…