Advanced detectors for active neutron dosemeters

Different options were investigated in the development of active neutron dosemeters for personnel and area monitoring. In particular, two different classes of detectors, superheated emulsions and silicon diodes, were studied as radiation sensors for such devices. The detectors were analysed with respect to their neutron sensitivity and their overall suitability for practical dosimetry. Superheated emulsions proved adequate in terms of their dose equivalent response and their photon discrimination: future work should now focus on the development of a rugged device. Significant improvements were also achieved with the diode sensors, although more research will be necessary for the design of a simple, single structure readily usable as a neutron dosemeter. (author)