Assessing radiation exposure and room effect in the new lab with a DD neutron generator at STU

Abstract

The study presents an extensive simulation analysing radiation exposure levels in an under-construction laboratory at STU, equipped with a deuterium–deuterium neutron generator and X-ray lamp. The laboratory's design and radiation shielding requirements are determined based on available premises and their proximity. Due to the complexity of the task, resource-intensive SCALE MONACO Monte Carlo simulations are employed to evaluate ambient dose rates within and near the projected premises. Various approximations are explored concerning source anisotropy, secondary gammas, bremsstrahlung, and different radiation sources. Notably, the facility aims to support precise fast neutron radiography of large industrial components; thus, the first estimation of the room effect is carried out.