Silicon Radiation Detector Monitors Nitrogen 16 in a Power Reactor

A totally depleted diffused junction silicon radiation detector is used to monitor N16 in the coolant of a heavy water nuclear power reactor. The detector operates at boiler room ambient temperature and is stable and reliable. The system provides discrimination against background from corrosion and activation products with very little shielding required. The detector characteristics which affect accuracy are described and special features are incorporated to improve system stability.