Study of degraded neutron spectra through metal matrix composites using CR-39 films

Considerable interest has grown in the last decade in the use of CR-39 films in routine neutron monitoring and dosimetry. In addition, work in neutron spectrometry has been undertaken by various workers (Decossas et al., 1984; Faermann et al., 1983; Fews et al., 1984; Turner et al., 1984). In the present study metal matrix composites (MMC) samples of Pb-Li, Pb-Cd, Al-Li and Al-B₄C were prepared by using powder metallurgy and alloying elements techniques. The density was obtained for these MMC samples in the range of 80-90% of the metal density. Degraded neutron spectra were obtained by exposing these samples to a ²⁵²Cf source housed in a camera and the detector used was CR-39 films covered with a 1 mm PE radiator. These spectra have also been validated through Monte Carlo Neutron and Photon Transport Code (1983).