Comments on the calibration factor in fast neutron dosimetry using the albedo method

The estimation of the fast neutron dose equivalent using the dosimetry by albedo neutrons method in case of the simultaneous irradiation by the fast neutron sources of Am-Be and 252 Cf is described. The estimation of the fast neutron dose equivalent have been made in the presence of thermal incident neutrons. The Multifunctional Personal Dosimeter (MPD) with Thermoluminescent Detectors Type DIT-MF was used. The dosimeter used detectors of lithium fluoride with natural lithium. The detectors are sensitive to the photon radiation and thermal neutrons. The calibration factor which has been used for the estimation of the fast neutrons dose equivalent, in this case, has been calculated with the aid of the calibration factors corresponding to the fast neutron source of Am-Be and 252 Cf. These calibration factors have been determined in the ideal conditions of irradiation, when the thermal incident neutrons have a negligible contribution. The estimation of the fast neutrons dose equivalent have taken into account the contribution of the thermal incident neutrons. It follows that the (MPD) can be used in mixed fields: the thermal neutrons, (resulting in irradiation conditions), the fast neutrons and gamma-rays, using the albedo method. In the case of the mixed fields generated by one or more fast neutron sources, the calibration factor can be calculated with the aid of the calibration factors for each source of the fast neutrons determined experimentally in the ideal conditions.. (authors)