Dosimetric evaluation of252Cf beam for use in radiobiology studies at Hiroshima University

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Abstract
A fission neutron converter at the Kyoto University Research Reactor (KUR) which provides a relatively high kerma rate has been used to evaluate the effects of fission neutrons on radiobiological materials. To assess such effects at a relatively low kerma rate, a 252Cf source was installed in a linear accelerator facility at Hiroshima University, in March 1984. In these experiments, reliable tissue kerma in free air data must be used as a base for determining RBE. Before the radiobiological studies were begun, tissue kerma in free air were determined under obvious irradiation conditions. The 252Cf source emits two types of radiation; one third gamma ray and two thirds neutron tissue kermas. From among the dosimetry methods usually used to study such mixed radiation fields, the authors selected the method of paired chambers. Reliable tissue kerma in free air data are provided by characterising the 252Cf irradiating system and by comparing the dosimetry methods. Measurements of absorption by materials were also made by conventional methods.