Recommendations for passive neutron measurements optimisation

Folder Recommendations for neutron measurements Optimisation (Dossier de Recommandations pour l'Optimisation des mesures in French) gathers basic knowledge essential to the realization of neutron measurements applied to waste matrices incorporating or likely to contain, radioactive material. It is a collective work developed from selected documents and know-how of experienced laboratories in the field. It is intended for technician and engineer in charge of measurement implementation. It provides strong support from both the theoretical and experience level, by providing recommendations to all relevant stages of the measurement, from the design of the equipment to the delivery of final result. From the waste classification as defined by French law it addresses the passive neutron measurement principles applied to waste packages. It provides guidance for sizing and setting a measurement station. Among the important points covered this document includes calibration, measurement implementation, uncertainty and limit of detection and decision threshold assessment. A description of the most common equipment is also available. It offers a series of recommendations to assist each facility to improve the quality measurements by incorporating a broader experience. (authors)