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Abstract

This thesis describes the development of new gas ionization counters for neutron detection and studies of the gaseous discharge processes involved in their action. In addition, the results of an investigation into some aspects of the basic mechanisms of luminescence in the gas scintillation counter and the application of the device to neutron detection are reported.
The work presented here has in large part comprised a neutron counter development programme carried out by the author in the Physics Department of the University of Tasmania during the period January, 1959, to December, 1961. The project was sponsored by the Australian Atomic Energy Commission in contract form with the University of Tasmania and liason has been maintained with the Reactor Physics Section of the Commission's establishment at Lucas Heights, New South Wales, throughout.
Early contract specifications called in particular for the design and construction of small, conventional neutron fission counters suitable for monitoring reactor neutron fluxes. In addition, a broad study of new methods of neutron detection, especially under conditions of high-level γ-ray intensities, was called for.
Investigations into new methods of neutron counting using gas ionization detectors have centered mainly on the gas counter operated in the corona zone, and three modes of operation have been examined, namely, proportional, streamer and spark methods of detection. In all cases neutron detection has been by counting the associated charged particles from the reactions B\(^{10}\)(n,∝)Li\(^7\), U\(^{235}\)(n,F\(_1\))F\(_2\) and Th\(^{232}\)(n,F\(_1\))F\(_2\).

Item Type:	Thesis - PhD
Authors/Creators:	Tavendale, AJ
Keywords:	Scintillation counters, Ionization chambers, Neutrons
Copyright Information:	Copyright 1962 the author - The University is continuing to endeavour to trace the copyright owner(s) and in the meantime this item has been reproduced here in good faith. We would be pleased to hear from the copyright owner(s).
Additional Information:	Thesis (PhD)--University of Tasmania, 1963
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