Early results on radioactive background characterization for Sanford Laboratory and DUSEL experiments

Authors

D. M. Mei, University of South Dakota
C. Zhang, University of South Dakota
K. Thomas, University of South Dakota
F. Gray, Regis University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-1-2010

Abstract

Measuring external sources of background for a deep underground laboratory at the Homestake Mine is an important step for the planned low-background experiments. The naturally occurring γ-ray fluxes at different levels in the Homestake Mine are studied using NaI detectors and Monte Carlo simulations. A simple algorithm is developed to convert the measured γ-ray rates into γ-ray fluxes. A good agreement between the measured and simulated γ-ray fluxes is achieved with the knowledge of the chemical composition and radioactivity levels in the rock. The neutron fluxes and γ-ray fluxes are predicted by Monte Carlo simulations for different levels including inaccessible levels that are under construction for the planned low-background experiments.

Recommended Citation

Mei, D. M.; Zhang, C.; Thomas, K.; and Gray, F., "Early results on radioactive background characterization for Sanford Laboratory and DUSEL experiments" (2010). Regis University Faculty Publications (comprehensive list). 877.
https://epublications.regis.edu/facultypubs/877