Fast neutron irradiation effects on organic polymers: Suitability for dosimetry purposes?

This paper reports measurements of irradiation effects of low doses transferred by 14 MeV neutrons on polymers. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), Poly(N-vinylcarbazole) (PVK) and Polyethylene oxide (PEO) were exposed within the dose range of 50–210 cGy. The structural and morphological changes, modification of the photo-physical properties and formation of radiation-induced species were analysed by fluorescence emission, differential scanning calorimetry, electron paramagnetic resonance and infrared and UV–visible spectroscopy. Dose dependences of the changes in the physico-chemical properties of the polymers are shown. Discussion is focused on the suitability of the materials in conjunction with analytical technique, for simple direct readout dosimetry purposes. The results suggest that the monitoring of EPDM oxidation by infrared spectrometry could be of value for dosimetry applications in an industrial environment using an easily implementable protocol.

Research highlights
► Fast neutrons deposited at low doses (50–210 cGy) generate radiation damage in polymers.
► EPDM oxidation caused by neutron irradiation can be monitored by IR spectrometry.
► The use of polymer films is a promising way to develop a simple direct readout dosimeter.