Measurements and calculations of thermal neutron fluence rate and neutron energy spectra resulting from moderation of 252Cf fast neutrons: Applications for neutron capture therapy

{}^{252}\text{Cf} is a neutron emitting radioisotope which has promise for both standard brachytherapy and neutron capture enhanced brachytherapy. In this study, experimental measurements and calculations were used to determine the thermal neutron fluence rate, {?}_{\text{th}}?[\mathrm{n}?{\text{cm}}^{?2}?{\mathrm{s}}^{?1}?{\text{mg}}^{?1}], in the vicinity of {}^{252}\text{Cf} applicator tube (AT) type sources. Results of these measurements were confirmed with Monte Carlo calculations performed in a distributed manner on multiple workstations using MCNP. Three studies were executed: (1) relative {?}_{\text{th}} as a function of distance from a {}^{252}\text{Cf} AT source in an A-150 tissue equivalent plastic phantom using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) of varying {}^6\text{Li}/\text{Li}...