Monte Carlo optimum management of 241Am/Be disused sealed radioactive sources

The optimum encapsulation of Am-241/Be disused sealed radioactive sources (DSRS) based on PHITS Monte Carlo simulations for their long-term storage in Cameroon was performed. The country capacity for the management of disused neutron sources was also evaluated and showed that a Am1 P60 capsule is sufficient for the total available inventoried Am-241/Be DSRSs. The effective dose rate was computed in the enclosures of the DSRS container, which will be temporarily stored in the centralized radioactive waste facility. The obtained results were in agreement with the ALARA principle for the exposure rate optimization and the obtained exposure dose rates were found to be 1.830 mu Sv/h (horizontal calculation) and 0.137 mu Sv/h (vertical computation) which values are lower than the 2.5 mu Sv/h acceptable limit for the public area. The dose profile for Am-241/Be source obtained, the neutron flux, and gamma generated from neutron absorption showed agreement with the research hypothesis. The Monte Carlo assessment achieved in the present research will be useful for dismantling and preparing the waste package for long-term storage.

Automated summary

The optimum encapsulation of Am-241/Be disused sealed radioactive sources (DSRS) for long-term storage in Cameroon was evaluated using PHITS Monte Carlo simulations. The country's capacity for managing disused neutron sources was also assessed. The computed effective dose rates in the DSRS container were found to be lower than the acceptable limit, indicating compliance with safety regulations. Additionally, the dose profile, neutron flux, and gamma radiation generated from neutron absorption for Am-241/Be source were validated.