Development of A Hand-Held Fast Neutron Survey Meter

A neutron survey meter with a ZnS(Ag) scintillator to measure recoil protons was built. The detection probe weighs similar to 2 kg, therefore providing us with true portability. Performance tests exhibited satisfactory neutron dosimetry characteristics in unmoderated or lightly moderated fission neutron fields and in particular work environments at a mixed oxide fuel facility. This new survey meter will augment a routine of neutron monitoring that is inconveniently being carried out by moderator-based neutron survey meters.