Re: use of neutron sources

["Eli A. Port" <eport@nwu.edu>]

At 06:57 AM 2/5/97 -0600, LIPTONW@detroitedison.com wrote:
>
>I received a note from our maintenance group that roofers will be bringing a 
>neutron source on site.  I have no idea what this is for! 
> 
>I'd appreciate information from anyone who is familiar with this use of a 
>neutron source regarding: 
> 
>what kind of source 
> 
>expected activity level 
> 
>purpose 
> 
>special precautions 
> 
>Please reply thru RADSAFE or directly to me. 
> 
>Bill Lipton 
>liptonw@detroitedison.com 
> 
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It probably will be used for moisture measurements in locating leaks.  
Neutrons are scattered by hydrogen in water under the roofing.  This 
is a common industrial application for Am-241/Be or Ra-226/Be sources.
Approved designs produce low to unmeasurable dose rates at distances 
farther away than ~1-2 m.

ELI A.PORT, CHP, CIH, P.E.
RSSI
eport@nwu.edu
VOICE:847.965.1999, 24X7
FAX:  847.965.1991