Radiation field measurements of Apsara reactor pool

Radiation field measurements inside APSARA reactor pool was carried out for the first time after 52 years of operation. This was required for carrying out assessment of radiation field associated with reactor core and other components inside the demineralized water pool. The data is essential for planning the proposed core up-gradation activities and refurbishing of the reactor and the man-rem budgeting thereof. The radiation mapping data from the measurements carried out at different power level could be used as a baseline data for calculation of shielding requirements during the up-gradation of Apsara reactor. Theoretical simulation of gamma radiation transport occurring in the APSARA core and surrounding bulk shield media was also carried out. The gamma dose rates evaluated by using QAD-CG point-kernel ray tracing technique to validate the measurements. (author)