Applications of californium-252 neutron sources in medicine, research, and industry

摘要: The 252Cf radioisotope is an intense neutron emitter that is readily encapsulated in compact, portable, sealed sources. Californium-252 is used commercially as a reliable, cost-effective neutron source for prompt gamma neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) of coal, cement, and minerals, and for detection and identification of explosives, land mines, and unexploded military ordnance. Other uses include neutron radiography, materials characterization and nuclear assay, reactor start-up sources, and calibration standards. Also highlighted are the treatment of cancer using 252Cf, experiments at the Californium User Facility for Neutron Science (CUF), and the 252Cf distribution programs of the US Department of Energy (DOE).