Purpose and uses - DOE-HDBK-1141-2001

Radiological Assessor Training

DOE-HDBK-1141-2001

Student's Guide

important research facilities in which basic

physics research is conducted.

D. Purpose and uses

Accelerators were originally designed to study the

structure of matter. Accelerators today are used

not only for basic research purposes, but for

many other applications as well. Examples

include:

Production of radioisotopes

Generation of bremsstrahlung for radiography

Induction of fusion

Pumping for lasers

Detoxification of hazardous waste

Production of synchrotron radiation

E. Facility size/complexity

Small accelerators/facilities usually mean simpler

controls, less staff to coordinate, smaller areas to

monitor, and fewer points of access to control.

However, small accelerators (lower energy) can

produce very intense levels of radiation.

As the size and complexity of the installation

increases, so does the importance of clear and

concise communication channels and a detailed

formality of operations.

IV. Radiological concerns

A. Prompt radiation

Prompt radiation results from the accelerator

beam or the interaction of the beam with matter

only while the accelerator is operating. Prompt

radiation components include:

Module 13 - 4