Optimization of CR-39 for past neutron dosimetry applications

We present the results of an experimental work aimed at improving the perfo rmances of the CR-39(R) (Registered Trademark of PPG Industries Inc.) nucle ar track detector for neutron dosimetry applications. The work was done in collaboration with the Intercast Europe S.p.A., producer of CR-39 for comme rcial and scientific applications. We compare the CR-39 made with different additives concentrations and different polymerization processes. We evalua te the response of the CR-39 to fast neutrons from three sources: Am-241-Be , Cf-252 and Pu-238-Li. Particular attention was paid to background fluctua tions that limit the lower detectable dose.