Radiation Protection of High Voltage Power Supplies for Neutron Sources

In modern scientific research and industrial applications, neutron sources play a crucial role. The high voltage power supply for the neutron source, as its core component, provides the necessary high voltage conditions for the generation of neutrons. However, with the operation of the neutron source, the issue of radioactivity becomes a safety hazard that cannot be ignored, and the radiation protection of the high voltage power supply for the neutron source is particularly critical.
During the operation of the high voltage power supply for the neutron source, due to the acceleration of charged particles by high voltage, nuclear reactions may occur in certain materials, resulting in the generation of radioactive particles. Neutrons and gamma rays are the main forms of radiation. These radioactive particles have strong penetrating power. If not effectively protected, they will cause serious harm to the health of operators and the surrounding environment.
To achieve radiation protection for the high voltage power supply of the neutron source, it is necessary to start from multiple levels. First is shielding protection, which is the most commonly used and effective means. For neutrons, materials rich in hydrogen such as polyethylene are often used as shielding layers. When the hydrogen nucleus collides with neutrons, it can effectively slow down the speed of neutrons, making them easier to be absorbed by other materials. For gamma rays, high density materials such as lead or concrete are used, taking advantage of their strong attenuation effect on gamma rays to reduce the radiation intensity. By reasonably designing a multi layer shielding structure, the radiation dose leaking outwards can be significantly reduced.
Distance protection is also an important strategy. Since the radiation intensity is inversely proportional to the square of the distance, on the premise of meeting the work requirements, increasing the distance between personnel and the high voltage power supply of the neutron source as much as possible can greatly reduce the radiation dose received by personnel. By setting up a safe isolation area and restricting the access of irrelevant personnel, the safety of personnel can be effectively guaranteed.
Time protection cannot be ignored. Try to shorten the residence time of operators in the radiation area and reduce the cumulative radiation dose. Reasonably arranging the operation process and improving operational proficiency to complete the necessary work in the shortest time helps to reduce the radiation risk.
In addition, advanced monitoring technologies are also required to monitor the radiation level in real time. Using various radiation detectors to continuously monitor the radiation dose in the workplace. Once the radiation level exceeds the safety threshold, an alarm is immediately issued and corresponding measures are taken. At the same time, personal dosimeters are equipped for operators to accurately record the radiation dose received by each person, so as to adjust work arrangements and protection measures in a timely manner.
The radiation protection of the high voltage power supply for the neutron source is a systematic project, covering shielding, distance, time protection and monitoring. Only by comprehensively applying these measures can the safe and stable operation of the high voltage power supply for the neutron source be ensured, the radioactive hazards be minimized, and a reliable guarantee be provided for scientific research and industrial applications.