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ASTM E385-90(2002)

(Test Method)

Standard Test Method for Oxygen Content Using a 14-MeV Neutron Activation and Direct-Counting Technique

Standard Test Method for Oxygen Content Using a 14-MeV Neutron Activation and Direct-Counting Technique

SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the measurement of oxygen concentration in almost any matrix by using a 14-MeV neutron activation and direct-counting technique. Essentially, the same system may be used to determine oxygen concentrations ranging from over 50 % to about 10 μg/g, or less, depending on the sample size and available 14-MeV neutron fluence rates.
Note 1—The range of analysis may be extended by using higher neutron fluence rates, larger samples, and higher counting efficiency detectors.
1.2 This test method may be used on either solid or liquid samples, provided that they can be made to conform in size, shape, and macroscopic density during irradiation and counting to a standard sample of known oxygen content. Several variants of this method have been described in the technical literature. A monograph is available which provides a comprehensive description of the principles of activation analysis using a neutron generator (1).
1.3 The values stated in either SI or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautions are given in Section 8.

General Information

Status
Historical
Publication Date
25-Oct-1990
ICS
27.120.30 - Fissile materials and nuclear fuel technology
Technical Committee
E10 - Nuclear Technology and Applications
Drafting Committee
E10.05 - Nuclear Radiation Metrology
Current Stage
Ref Project

Relations

Replaces
ASTM E385-90(1996) - Standard Test Method for Oxygen Content Using a 14-MeV Neutron Activation and Direct-Counting Technique
Effective Date
26-Oct-1990
Replaced By
ASTM E385-07 - Standard Test Method for Oxygen Content Using a 14-MeV Neutron Activation and Direct-Counting Technique
Effective Date
01-Jun-2007

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ASTM E385-90(2002) - Standard Test Method for Oxygen Content Using a 14-MeV Neutron Activation and Direct-Counting TechniqueASTM E385-90(2002) - Standard Test Method for Oxygen Content Using a 14-MeV Neutron Activation and Direct-Counting Technique
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ASTM E385-90(2002) - Standard Test Method for Oxygen Content Using a 14-MeV Neutron Activation and Direct-Counting Technique
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NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
Designation:E385–90(Reapproved 2002)
Standard Test Method for
Oxygen Content Using a 14-MeV Neutron Activation and
1
Direct-Counting Technique
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E385; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope E181 Test Methods for Detector Calibration and Analysis
3
of Radionuclides
1.1 This test method covers the measurement of oxygen
E496 Test Method for Measuring Neutron Fluence Rate
concentrationinalmostanymatrixbyusinga14-MeVneutron
3 4
and Average Energy from H(d,n) He Neutron Generators
activation and direct-counting technique. Essentially, the same
3
by Radioactivation Techniques
system may be used to determine oxygen concentrations
2.2 U.S. Government Document:
rangingfromover50%toabout10µg/g,orless,dependingon
4
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 10, Part 20
the sample size and available 14-MeV neutron fluence rates.
NOTE 1—The range of analysis may be extended by using higher 3. Terminology
neutron fluence rates, larger samples, and higher counting efficiency
3.1 Definitions (see also Terminology E170):
detectors.
3.1.1 accelerator, n—a machine that ionizes a gas and
1.2 This test method may be used on either solid or liquid
electrically accelerates the ions onto a target. The accelerator
samples, provided that they can be made to conform in size,
may be based on the Cockroft-Walton, Van de Graaff, or other
shape,andmacroscopicdensityduringirradiationandcounting
design types (1). Compact sealed-tube, mixed deuterium and
to a standard sample of known oxygen content. Several
tritium gas, Cockcroft-Walton neutron generators are most
variants of this method have been described in the technical
commonly used for 14-MeVneutron activation analysis. How-
literature.Amonograph is available which provides a compre-
ever, “pumped” drift-tube accelerators that use replaceable
hensive description of the principles of activation analysis
tritium-containing targets are also still in use. A review of
2
using a neutron generator (1).
operational characteristics, descriptions of accessory instru-
1.3 The values stated in either SI or inch-pound units are to
mentation,andapplicationsofacceleratorsusedasfastneutron
be regarded separately as the standard. The values given in
generators is given in Ref (2).
parentheses are for information only.
3.1.2 comparator standard, n—a reference standard of
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
known oxygen content whose specific counting rate (counts
−1 −1
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
min [mg of oxygen] ) may be used to quantify the oxygen
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
content of a sample irradiated and counted under the same
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
conditions. Often, a comparator standard is selected to have a
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precau-
matrix composition, physical size, density and shape very
tions are given in Section 8.
similar to the corresponding parameters of the sample to be
analyzed. Comparative standards prepared in this way may be
2. Referenced Documents
used directly as “monitors” (see 3.1.4) in order to avoid the
2.1 ASTM Standards:
needformonitor-samplecalibrationplots,inthosecaseswhere
E170 Terminology Relating to Radiation Measurements
the usual monitor reference standard is physically or chemi-
3
and Dosimetry
cally dissimilar to the samples to be analyzed.
3.1.3 14-MeV neutron fluence rate, n—the areal density of
neutrons passing through a sample, measured in terms of
1
−2 −1
ThistestmethodisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeE10onNuclear
neutrons cm s , that is produced by the fusion reaction of
Technology and Applications and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
deuterium and tritium ions accelerated to energies of typically
E10.05on Nuclear Radiation Metrology.
150 to 200 keV in a small accelerator. Fluence rate is also
Current edition approved Oct. 26, 1990. Published August 1991. Originally
published as E385–69T. Last previous edition E385–80.
2
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of
4
the text. Available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
3
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 12.02. Office, Washington, DC 20402.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.
1

---------------------- Page: 1 ----------------------
E385
16
commonly referred to as “flux density.” The total neutron transitionsaredirectlytoth
...

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ASTM E266-23(Test Method)
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5.1 Refer to Guide E844 for the selection, irradiation, and quality control of neutron dosimeters.  
5.2 Refer to Practice E261 for a general discussion of the determination of fast-neutron fluence rate with threshold detectors.  
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5.4 24Na has a half-life of 14.958 (2)4 h (2) and emits gamma rays with energies of 1.368630 (5) and 2.754049 (13) MeV (2).  
5.5 Fig. 1 shows a plot of the International Reactor Dosimetry and Fusion File (IRDFF-II) cross section (3, 4) versus neutron energy for the fast-neutron reaction  27Al(n,α) 24Na (3) along with a comparison to the current experimental database (5, 6). While the RRDF-2008 and IRDFF-1.05 cross sections extend from threshold up to 60 MeV, due to considerations of the available validation data, the energy region over which this standard recommends use of this cross section for reactor dosimetry applications only extends from threshold at ~4.25 MeV up to 20 MeV. This figure is for illustrative purposes and is used to indicate the range of response of the  27Al(n,α) reaction. Refer to Guide E1018 for recommended sources for the tabulated dosimetry cross sections.
FIG. 1 27Al(n,α)24Na Cross Section, from IRDFF-II Library, with EXFOR Experimental Data  
5.6 Two competing activities, 28Al (2.25 (2) minute half-life) and 27Mg (9.458 (12) minute half-life), are formed in the reactions 27Al(n,γ)28Al and 27Al(n,p)27Mg, respectively, but these can be eliminated by waiting 2 h before counting.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers procedures measuring reaction rates by the activation reaction  27Al(n,α)24Na.  
1.2 This activation reaction is useful for measuring neutrons with energies above approximately 6.5 MeV and for irradiation times up to about two days (for longer irradiations, or when there are significant variations in reactor power during the irradiation, see Practice E261).  
1.3 With suitable techniques, fission-neutron fluence rates above 106 cm−2·s−1 can be determined.  
1.4 Detailed procedures for other fast neutron detectors are referenced in Practice E261.  
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1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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ASTM E481-23(Practice)
Standard Practice for Measuring Neutron Fluence Rates by Radioactivation of Cobalt and Silver

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 This practice uses one monitor (cobalt) with a nearly 1/v absorption cross-section curve and a second monitor (silver) with a large resonance peak so that its resonance integral is large compared to its thermal cross section. The pertinent data for these two reactions are given in Table 1. The equations are based on the Westcott formalism ((2, 3) and Practice E261) and determine a Westcott 2200 m/s neutron fluence rate nv0 and the Westcott epithermal index parameter  . References (4-6) contain a general discussion of the two-reaction test method. In this practice, the absolute activities of both cobalt and silver monitors are determined. This differs from the test method in the references wherein only one absolute activity is determined.  (A) The numbers in parentheses following given values are the uncertainty in the last digit(s) of the value; 0.729 (8) means 0.729 ± 0.008, 70.8(1) means 70.8 ± 0.1.(B) The decay constant, λ, is defined as ln(2) / t1/2 with units of sec–1, where t1/2 is the nuclide half-life in seconds.(C) Calculated using Eq 10.(D) In Fig. 1, Θ = 4ErkT/AΓ2 = 0.2 corresponds to the value for 109Ag for T = 293 K, ∑r = N0σr,max,T=0Kσr,max,T=0K = 31138.03 barn at 5.19 eV (13). The value of σr,max,T=0K = 31138.03 barns is calculated using the Breit-Wigner single-level resonance formula  where the 109Ag atomic mass is A = 108.9047558 amu (14), the ENDF/B-VIII.0 (MAT = 4731) (13) resonance parameters are: resonance total width Γ = 0.1427333 eV, formation neutron width Γn = 0.0127333 eV, and radiative/decay width Γγ = 0.13 eV, with a resonance spin J=1, and the statistical spin factor  where s1 = 1/2 and s2 = 1/2 are the spins of the two particles (neutron and 109Ag ground state (15)) forming resonance.  
3.2 The advantages of this approach are the elimination of four difficulties associated with the use of cadmium: (1) the perturbation of the field by the cadmium; (2) the inexact cadmium cut-off energy; (3) the low melting temperature of cadmium; a...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers a suitable means of obtaining the thermal neutron fluence rate, or fluence, in nuclear reactor environments where the use of cadmium, as a thermal neutron shield as described in Test Method E262, is undesirable for reasons such as potential spectrum perturbations or due to temperatures above the melting point of cadmium.  
1.2 The reaction 59Co(n,γ )60Co results in a well-defined gamma emitter having a half-life of 5.2711 years2 (8)3 (1).4 The reaction 109Ag(n,γ)110mAg results in a nuclide with a well-known, complex decay scheme with a half-life of 249.78 (2) days (1). Both cobalt and silver are available either in very pure form or alloyed with other metals such as aluminum. A reference source of cobalt in aluminum alloy to serve as a neutron fluence rate monitor wire standard is available from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) as Standard Reference Material (SRM) 953.5 The competing activities from neutron activation of other isotopes are eliminated, for the most part, by waiting for the short-lived products to die out before counting. With suitable techniques, thermal neutron fluence rate in the range from 108 cm−2·s−1 to 3 × 1015 cm−2·s−1 can be measured. Two calculational practices are described in Section 9 for the determination of neutron fluence rates. The practice described in 9.3 may be used in all cases. This practice describes a means of measuring a Westcott neutron fluence rate in 9.2 (Note 1) by activation of cobalt- and silver-foil monitors (see Terminology E170). For the Wescott Neutron Fluence Convention method to be applicable, the measurement location must be well moderated and be well represented by a Maxwellian low-energy distribution and an (1/E) epithermal distribution. These conditions are usually only met in positions surrounded by hydrogenous moderator without nearby strongly multiplying or absorbing materials.
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ASTM E496-14(2022)(Test Method)
Standard Test Method for Measuring Neutron Fluence and Average Energy from 3H(d,n)4He Neutron Generators by Radioactivation Techniques

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Refer to Practice E261 for a general discussion of the measurement of fast-neutron fluence rates with threshold detectors.  
5.5.1 Fig. 5 (2) shows how the neutron energy depends upon the angle of scattering in the laboratory coordinate system when the incident deuteron has an energy of 150 keV and is incident on a thick and a thin tritiated target. For thick targets, the incident deuteron loses energy as it penetrates the target and produces neutrons of lower energy. A thick target is defined as a target thick enough to completely stop the incident deuteron. The two curves in Fig. 5, for both thick and thin targets, come from different sources. The dashed line calculations come from Ref (3); the solid curve calculations come from Ref (4); and the measured data come from Ref (5). The dash-dot curve and the right-hand axis give the difference between the calculated neutron energies for thin and thick targets. Computer codes are available to assist in calculating the expected thick and thin target yield and neutron spectrum for various incident deuteron energies (6).
FIG. 5 Dependence of 3H(d,n)4He Neutron Energy on Angle (2)  
5.6 The Q-value for the primary 3H(d,n)4He reaction is +17.59 MeV. When the incident deuteron energy exceeds 3.71 MeV and 4.92 MeV, the break-up reactions 3H(d,np)3H and 3H(d,2n)3He, respectively, become energetically possible. Thus, at high deuteron energies (>3.71 MeV) this reaction is no longer monoenergetic. Monoenergetic neutron beams with energies from about 14.8 to 20.4 MeV can be produced by this reaction at forward laboratory angles (7).  
5.7 It is recommended that the dosimetry sensors be fielded in the exact positions where the dosimetry results are wanted. There are a number of factors that can affect the monochromaticity or energy spread of the neutron beam (7, 8). These factors include the energy regulation of the incident deuteron energy, energy loss in retaining windows if a gas target is used or energy loss within t...
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ASTM E526-22(Test Method)
Standard Test Method for Measuring Fast-Neutron Reaction Rates By Radioactivation of Titanium

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Refer to Guide E844 for the selection, irradiation, and quality control of neutron dosimeters.  
5.2 Refer to Practice E261 for a general discussion of the determination of fast-neutron fluence rate with threshold detectors.  
5.3 Titanium has good physical strength, is easily fabricated, has excellent corrosion resistance, has a melting temperature of 1668 °C, and can be obtained with satisfactory purity.  
5.4 46Sc has a half-life of 83.787 (16)4 days (2). The 46Sc decay emits a 0.889271 (2) MeV gamma 99.98374 (35) % of the time and a second gamma with an energy of 1.120537 (3) MeV 99.97 (2) % of the time.  
5.5 The recommended “representative isotopic abundances” for natural titanium (3) are:    
8.25 (3) % 46Ti  
7.44 (2) % 47Ti  
73.72 (2) % 48Ti  
5.41 (2) % 49Ti  
5.18 (2) % 50Ti  
5.6 The radioactive products of the neutron reactions 47Ti(n,p)47Sc (τ1/2 = 3.3485 (9) d) (2) and 48Ti(n,p)48Sc (τ1/2 = 43.67 h), (3) might interfere with the analysis of 46Sc.  
5.7 Contaminant activities (for example, 65Zn and 182Ta) might interfere with the analysis of 46Sc. See 7.1.2 and 7.1.3 for more details on the 182Ta and 65Zn interference.  
5.8 46Ti and 46Sc have cross sections for thermal neutrons of 0.59 ± 0.18 and 8.0 ± 1.0 barns, respectively (4); therefore, when an irradiation exceeds a thermal-neutron fluence greater than about 2 × 1021 cm–2, provisions should be made to either use a thermal-neutron shield to prevent burn-up of 46Sc or measure the thermal-neutron fluence rate and calculate the burn-up.  
5.9 Fig. 1 shows a plot of the International Reactor Dosimetry and Fusion File, IRDFF-II cross section (5) versus neutron energy for the fast-neutron reactions of titanium which produce 46Sc (that is, natTi(n,X)46Sc). Included in the plot is the 46Ti(n,p) reaction and the 47Ti(n,np:d) contributions to the 46Sc production, normalized per natTi atom with the individual isotopic contributions weighted using the natural abundances (3). This figure ...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers procedures for measuring reaction rates by the activation reaction natTi(n,X)46Sc. The “X” designation represents any combination of light particles associated with the production of the residual 46Sc product. Within the applicable neutron energy range for fission reactor applications, this reaction is a properly normalized combination of three different reaction channels: 46Ti(n,p)46Sc; 47Ti(n, np)46Sc; and 47Ti(n,d)46Sc.
Note 1: The 47Ti(n,np)46Sc reaction, ENDF-6 format file/reaction identifier MF=3, MT=28, is distinguished from the 47Ti(n,d)46Sc reaction, ENDF-6 format file/reaction identifier MF=3/MT=104, even though it leads to the same residual product (1).2 The combined reaction, in the IRDFF-II library, has the file/reaction identifier MF=10/MT=5.
Note 2: The cross section for the combined 47Ti(n,np:d) reaction is relatively small for energies less than 12 MeV and, in fission reactor spectra, the production of the residual 46Sc is not easily distinguished from that due to the 46Ti(n,p) reaction.  
1.2 The reaction is useful for measuring neutrons with energies above approximately 4.4 MeV and for irradiation times, under uniform power, up to about 250 days (for longer irradiations, or for varying power levels, see Practice E261).  
1.3 With suitable techniques, fission-neutron fluence rates above 109 cm–2·s–1 can be determined. However, in the presence of a high thermal-neutron fluence rate, 46Sc depletion should be investigated.  
1.4 Detailed procedures for other fast-neutron detectors are referenced in Practice E261.  
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices an...

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Standard Test Method for Oxygen Content Using a 14-MeV Neutron Activation and Direct-Counting Technique

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The conventional determination of oxygen content in liquid or solid samples is a relatively difficult chemical procedure. It is slow and usually of limited sensitivity. The 14-MeV neutron activation and direct counting technique provides a rapid, highly sensitive, nondestructive procedure for oxygen determination in a wide range of matrices. This test method is independent of the chemical form of the oxygen.  
5.2 This test method can be used for quality and process control in the metals, coal, and petroleum industries, and for research purposes in a broad spectrum of applications.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the measurement of oxygen concentration in almost any matrix by using a 14-MeV neutron activation and direct-counting technique. Essentially, the same system may be used to determine oxygen concentrations ranging from under 10 μg/g to over 500 mg/g, depending on the sample size and available 14-MeV neutron fluence rates.  
Note 1: The range of analysis may be extended by using higher neutron fluence rates, larger samples, and higher counting efficiency detectors.  
1.2 This test method may be used on either solid or liquid samples, provided that they can be made to conform in size, shape, and macroscopic density during irradiation and counting to a standard sample of known oxygen content. Several variants of this method have been described in the technical literature. A monograph is available which provides a comprehensive description of the principles of activation analysis using a neutron generator (1).2  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.Specific precautions are given in Section 8.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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ASTM E261-16(2021)(Practice)
Standard Practice for Determining Neutron Fluence, Fluence Rate, and Spectra by Radioactivation Techniques

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Transmutation Processes—The effect on materials of bombardment by neutrons depends on the energy of the neutrons; therefore, it is important that the energy distribution of the neutron fluence, as well as the total fluence, be determined.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes procedures for the determination of neutron fluence rate, fluence, and energy spectra from the radioactivity that is induced in a detector specimen.  
1.2 The practice is directed toward the determination of these quantities in connection with radiation effects on materials.  
1.3 For application of these techniques to reactor vessel surveillance, see also Test Methods E1005.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: Detailed methods for individual detectors are given in the following ASTM test methods: E262, E263, E264, E265, E266, E343, E393, E481, E523, E526, E704, E705, and E854.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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ASTM E523-21e1(Test Method)
Standard Test Method for Measuring Fast-Neutron Reaction Rates by Radioactivation of Copper

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Refer to Guide E844 for the selection, irradiation, and quality control of neutron dosimeters.  
5.2 Refer to Practice E261 for a general discussion of the measurement of fast neutron fluence rate with threshold detectors. The general shape of the  63Cu(n,α) 60Co cross section is also shown in Fig. 1 (3, 4, 5) along with a comparison to the current experimental database (6). This figure is for illustrative purposes only to indicate the range of the response of the  63Cu(n,α)60Co reaction. Refer to Guide E1018 for descriptions of recommended tabulated dosimetry cross sections.
FIG. 1 63Cu(n,α)60Co Cross Section with EXFOR Experimental Data  
Note 1: The cross section appropriate for use under this standard is from the IRDFF-II library (5) which, up to an incident neutron energy of 20 MeV, is drawn from the RRDF-2002 library (3) and is identical to the adopted cross section in the IRDF-2002 library (4). See Guide E1018.  
5.3 The major advantages of copper for measuring fast-neutron fluence rate are that it has good strength, is easily fabricated, has excellent corrosion resistance, has a melting temperature of 1083°C, and can be obtained in high purity. The half-life of  60 Co is long and its decay scheme is simple and well known.  
5.4 The disadvantages of copper for measuring fast neutron fluence rate are the high reaction apparent threshold of 4.5 MeV, the possible interference from cobalt impurity (>1 μg/g), the reported possible thermal component of the (n,α) reaction, and the possibly significant cross sections for thermal neutrons for  63Cu and  60Co [that is, 4.50(2) and 2.0(2) barns, respectively], (7), which will require burnout corrections at high fluences.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers procedures for measuring reaction rates by the activation reaction  63Cu(n,α) 60Co. The cross section for  60Co produced in this reaction increases rapidly with neutrons having energies greater than about 4.5 MeV. 60Co decays with a half-life of 5.2711(8)2 years (1)3,4 and emits two gamma rays having energies of 1.173228(3) and 1.332492(4) MeV (1). The isotopic content of natural copper is 69.174(20) %  63Cu and 30.826(20) %  65Cu (2). The neutron reaction,  63Cu(n,γ)64Cu, produces a radioactive product that emits gamma rays [1.34577(6) MeV (E1005)] which might interfere with the counting of the  60Co gamma rays.  
1.2 With suitable techniques, fission-neutron fluence rates above 109 cm−2·s−1  can be determined. The  63Cu(n,α)60Co reaction can be used to determine fast-neutron fluences for irradiation times up to about 15 years, provided that the analysis methods described in Practice E261 are followed. If dosimeters are analyzed after irradiation periods longer than 15 years, the information inferred about the fluence during irradiation periods more than 15 years before the end of the irradiation should not be relied upon without supporting data from dosimeters withdrawn earlier.  
1.3 Detailed procedures for other fast-neutron detectors are referenced in Practice E261.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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Standard Test Method for Measuring Reaction Rates and Fast-Neutron Fluences by Radioactivation of Sulfur-32

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Refer to Guides E720 and E844 for the selection, irradiation, and quality control of neutron dosimeters.  
5.2 Refer to Practice E261 for a general discussion of the determination of fast-neutron fluence and fluence rate with threshold detectors.  
5.3 The activation reaction produces  32P, which decays by the emission of a single beta particle in 100 % of the decays, and which emits no gamma rays. The half life of  32P is 14.284 (36)3 days (1)  4 and the maximum beta energy is 1710.66 (21) keV (1).  
5.4 Elemental sulfur is readily available in pure form and any trace contaminants present do not produce significant amounts of radioactivity. Natural sulfur, however, is composed of  32S (94.99 % (26)),  34S (4.25 % (24)) (2), and trace amounts of other sulfur isotopes. The presence of these other isotopes leads to several competing reactions that can interfere with the counting of the 1710-keV beta particle. This interference can usually be eliminated by the use of appropriate techniques, as discussed in Section 8.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method describes procedures for measuring reaction rates and fast-neutron fluences by the activation reaction  32S(n,p)32P.  
1.2 This activation reaction is useful for measuring neutrons with energies above approximately 3 MeV.  
1.3 With suitable techniques, fission-neutron fluences from about 5 × 108 to 1016 n/cm 2 can be measured.  
1.4 Detailed procedures for other fast-neutron detectors are described in Practice E261.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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ASTM
ASTM E704-19(Test Method)
Standard Test Method for Measuring Reaction Rates by Radioactivation of Uranium-238

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Refer to Practice E261 for a general discussion of the determination of fast-neutron fluence rate with fission detectors.  
5.2 238U is available as metal foil, wire, or oxide powder (see Guide E844). It is usually encapsulated in a suitable container to prevent loss of, and contamination by, the 238U and its fission products.  
5.3 One or more fission products can be assayed. Pertinent data for relevant fission products are given in Table 1 and Table 2. (A) The lightface numbers in parentheses are the magnitude of plus or minus uncertainties in the last digit(s) listed.(B) With 137mBa (2.552 min) in equilibrium.(C) The recommended half-life and gamma emission probabilities have been taken from the Reference (3) data that was recommended at the time that the recommended fission yields were set.(D) Probability of daughter 140La decay.(E) This is the activity ratio of 140La/140Ba after reached transient equilibrium (t ≥ 19 days).  (A) The JEFF-3.1/3.1.1 radioactive decay data and fission yields sub-libraries, JEFF Report 20, OECD 2009, Nuclear Energy Agency (5).(B) All yield data given as a %; RC represents a cumulative yield; RI represents an independent yield.  
5.3.1 137Cs-137mBa is chosen frequently for long irradiations. Radioactive products 134Cs and 136Cs may be present, which can interfere with the counting of the 0.662 MeV  137Cs-137mBa gamma rays (see Test Method E320).  
5.3.2 140Ba-140La is chosen frequently for short irradiations (see Test Method E393).  
5.3.3 95Zr can be counted directly, following chemical separation, or with its daughter 95Nb using a high-resolution gamma detector system.  
5.3.4 144Ce is a high-yield fission product applicable to 2- to 3-year irradiations.  
5.4 It is necessary to surround the 238U monitor with a thermal neutron absorber to minimize fission product production from a quantity of 235U in the 238U target and from  239Pu from (n,γ) reactions in the 238U material. Assay of the 239Pu concentration when a signif...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers procedures for measuring reaction rates by assaying a fission product (F.P.) from the fission reaction 238U(n,f)F.P.  
1.2 The reaction is useful for measuring neutrons with energies from approximately 1.5 to 7 MeV and for irradiation times up to 30 to 40 years, provided that the analysis methods described in Practice E261 are followed.  
1.3 Equivalent fission neutron fluence rates as defined in Practice E261 can be determined.  
1.4 Detailed procedures for other fast-neutron detectors are referenced in Practice E261.  
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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ASTM
ASTM E264-19(Test Method)
Standard Test Method for Measuring Fast-Neutron Reaction Rates by Radioactivation of Nickel

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Refer to Guide E844 for the selection, irradiation, and quality control of neutron dosimeters.  
5.2 Refer to Practice E261 for a general discussion of the determination of fast-neutron fluence rate with threshold detectors.  
5.3 Pure nickel in the form of foil or wire is readily available, and easily handled.  
5.4 58Co has a half-life of 70.85 (3) days (Refs (1) and (2))3 and emits a gamma ray with an energy of 810.7602 (20) keV (Refs (2) and (3)).  
5.5 Competing activities  65Ni(2.5172 h) and  57Ni(35.9 (3) h (Ref (2)) are formed by the reactions  64Ni(n,γ)  65Ni, and 58Ni(n,2n)57Ni, respectively.  
5.6 A second 9.04 h isomer,  58mCo, is formed that decays to 70.85-day  58Co. Loss of  58Co and  58mCo by thermal-neutron burnout will occur in environments (Refs (4) and (5) having thermal fluence rates of 3 × 1012  cm−2·s −1  and above. Burnout correction factors,  R, are plotted as a function of time for several thermal fluxes in Fig. 1. Tabulated values for a continuous irradiation time are provided in Hogg, et al. (Ref (5))  
5.7 Fig. 2 shows a plot of cross section (Ref (6)) versus energy for the fast-neutron reaction  58Ni(n,p) 58Co. This figure is for illustrative purposes only to indicate the range of response of the  58Ni(n,p) reaction. Refer to Guide E1018 for descriptions of recommended tabulated dosimetry cross sections.
FIG. 2 58Ni(n,p)58Co Cross Section  
Note 1: The data is taken from the Evaluated Nuclear Data File, ENDF/B-VI, rather than the later ENDF/B-VII. This is in accordance with E1018, section 6.1, since the later ENDF/B-VII data files do not include covariance information. For more details see Section H of Ref (7).
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers procedures for measuring reaction rates by the activation reaction  58Ni(n,p)58Co.
FIG. 1 R Correction Values as a Function of Irradiation Time and Neutron Flux
Note 1: The burnup corrections were computed using effective burn-up cross sections of 1650 b for 58Co(n,γ) and 1.4E5 b for 58mCo(n,γ).  
1.2 This activation reaction is useful for measuring neutrons with energies above approximately 2.1 MeV and for irradiation times up to about 200 days in the absence of high thermal neutron fluence rates, provided that the analysis methods described in Practice E261 are followed. If dosimeters are analyzed after irradiation periods longer than 200 days, the information inferred about the fluence during irradiation periods more than 200 days before the end of the irradiation should not be relied upon without supporting data from dosimeters withdrawn earlier.  
1.3 With suitable techniques fission-neutron fluence rates densities above 107  cm−2·s −1 can be determined.  
1.4 Detailed procedures for other fast-neutron detectors are referenced in Practice E261.  
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

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