Coalescence Effects on Neutron Production in High Energy Nucleus-Nucleus Collisions
Abstract
The collision of atomic nuclei traveling at or near relativistic speeds with stationary target nuclei produces a shower of nuclear fragments in all directions and at a wide range of energies, including energies significantly higher than those of the original projectile. Sources of these high-energy projectile nuclei include space radiation of cosmic or solar origin, accelerators, and radiation beams used in medical treatment. Of particular concern is the production of secondary neutrons in bulk mafler, such as the shielding and components of manned spacecraft or space-based facilities and overlying body tissue that shields underlying organs. Some estimates of dose equivalent for Lunar or Martian base scenarios indicate that up to 50% of the dose equivalent behind thick shields may come from secondary neutrons (Simonsen, 1991). They are also a major source of radiation exposure for flight crews in high-altitude aircraft (NCRP, 1995). Because it is not possible to determine experimentally the neutron production spectra for every possible combination of energy, projectile and target, it is desirable to produce a validated model that can be used to provide cross section predictions as needed for these applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA392338
Entities
People
- Gerald S. Braley
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology