Neutron dosimetry characteristics of PADC manufactured by Instrument Plastics Ltd

PADC from a UK manufacturer with no history of producing dosimetry grade material has been obtained with a view to assessing the potential for this new material being used in the HPA neutron personal dosimetry service. The HPA is always looking for alternative suppliers, both to seek out better dosimetry grade PADC, but also to secure long-term supplies for the dosimetry service. This new material has been tested in terms of its mean background, background variability and response to ascertain its dosimetric potential. The stopping of high-energy α-particles has also been studied in a stack of dosemeters to compare the LET threshold of the new material with that currently used in the personal neutron dosimetry service.