ASTM E481-15

3.1 This test method uses one monitor (cobalt) with a nearly 1/v absorption cross-section curve and a second monitor (silver) with a large resonance peak so that its resonance integral is large compared to the thermal cross section. The pertinent data for these two reactions are given in Table 1. The equations are based on the Westcott formalism (3.2 The advantages of this test method are the elimination of three difficulties associated with the use of cadmium: (3.3 The long half-lives of the two monitors permit the determination of fluence for long-term monitoring.

1.1 This test method covers a suitable means of obtaining the thermal neutron fluence rate, or fluence, in well moderated nuclear reactor environments where the use of cadmium, as a thermal neutron shield as described in Test Method E262, is undesirable because of potential spectrum perturbations or of temperatures above the melting point of cadmium.

1.2 This test method describes a means of measuring a Westcott neutron fluence rate (Note 1) by activation of cobalt- and silver-foil monitors (See Terminology E170). The reaction ⁵⁹Co(Note 1: Westcott fluence rate

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.