Nuclear Gamma-Ray Lines

The study of nuclear gamma-ray lines that are produced by isomeric transitions in Ge detectors offers the possibility of estimating the neutron spectrum inside the shield. This process constitutes an important source of background in gamma-ray spectrometers flown in the upper atmosphere and in earth orbit. 

The nuclear reactor also must be shielded against the emission of radioactive material to the external environment. Suitable radiation controls include both thermal and biological shielding systems. Radiation from alpha particles (a rays) and beta particles ((3 rays) has little penetrating power, but gamma rays have deep penetration properties. Neutron radiation is, however, the primary area of risk. Typically, extremely thick concrete walls are used as a neutron absorber, but lead-lined concrete and special concretes are also used. 

Two elemental analyzer systems have been developed, the "Continuous On-line Nuclear Assay of Coal", CONAC, (Science Application, Inc., Palo Alto, CA) and "The Elemental Analyzer" (MDH Industries, Inc., Monrovia, CA). Both of these units are based upon the measurement of prompt gamma rays that are emitted from a nucleus following the capture of a neutron. This technique is commonly known as prompt neutron activation analysis, PNAA. 

On-line moisture monitors, which are based on infra-red absorption, nuclear magnetic resonance, capacitance and microwave attenuation are used in numerous process industries. The applicability of these techniques to the coal preparation industry has been reviewed (13,14). The CONAC and "Elemental Analyzer" units use a microwave attenuation method for the moisture measurement. This information is used to correct the PNAA hydrogen assay data in order to calculate the hydrogen content of the coal. Kay-Ray, Inc., (Arlington Heights, Illinois) has developed an instrument that measures the moisture content of a coke stream and uses a combination of microwave and gamma ray attenuation measurements. 

According to our present view of celestial gamma-ray sources in the energy range of nuclear transitions, narrow lines seem to be generally emitted from extended distributions while broad lines tend to be radiated by compact sources. 

---