Advanced Gamma Radiation Monitoring: Development of a Dual-Volume Ionization Chamber for Nuclear Reactor Safety

Introduction:
Ensuring safety in nuclear reactors during emergency conditions is a critical challenge. Researchers from the Electronics Corporation of India Limited have designed a Dual-Volume Ionization Chamber to detect gamma radiation with high accuracy, even in extreme conditions. This innovation enhances accident monitoring systems in nuclear power plants.

Discover more groundbreaking research at International Journal of Physics Research and Applications.

Innovative Design for High-Risk Nuclear Environments

This study presents a robust gamma ionization chamber capable of detecting radiation levels from 100 mR/hr to 10⁷ R/hr. Built with aluminum electrodes, the chamber operates efficiently under high temperatures, pressure, and radiation exposure. Key features include:

• Dual-volume detection with a 10:1 outer-to-inner volume ratio
• Argon-Nitrogen gas mixture for enhanced charge collection efficiency
• Durability for over 20 years, even under severe conditions

Radiation Detection with High Sensitivity

The detector was rigorously tested using a Co-60 gamma source in a food irradiation facility. Key performance results include:

Accuracy within ±6% for gamma energies from 660 KeV to 1.25 MeV
Linear response across gamma fields ranging from 100 mR/hr to 10⁴ R/hr
Saturation efficiency maintained at 150V within a 500V DC operating range

Endurance Testing for Long-Term Nuclear Safety

The thermal and radiation aging tests ensured the chamber’s reliability:

Thermal Aging: Accelerated temperature tests (135°C for 8 days) confirmed no material degradation
Radiation Aging: Exposure to 10 MRad gamma radiation showed minimal insulation resistance loss

International Compliance & Future Applications

The detector meets IEC 60951-3 standards for nuclear accident monitoring, making it a valuable tool for:

• Nuclear reactor safety systems
• Post-accident radiation assessment
• Radiation protection in high-exposure zones

Read the full study at https://doi.org/10.29328/journal.ijpra.1001071.

Enhancing Radiation Safety: The Global Perspective

International bodies like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) emphasize the importance of robust radiation monitoring systems in nuclear facilities. Advanced detectors like this ionization chamber contribute to global nuclear safety by enhancing real-time monitoring capabilities.

Conclusion

The Dual-Volume Ionization Chamber represents a breakthrough in nuclear radiation monitoring. By combining high sensitivity, durability, and compliance with international safety standards, it paves the way for safer nuclear reactor operations.

Explore more innovations at International Journal of Physics Research and Applications.

Disclaimer:
This content is generated using AI assistance and should be reviewed for accuracy and compliance before use. Any grievances raised due to reusing this material will not be handled by the author.

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