Reactor and Linear Accelerator Induced Effects in Dielectrics

The currents induced by nuclear radiation from a pulsed reactor on several commercial capacitors are compared with those induced by the electron beam of a linear accelerator (LINAC) source. Dependence of the radiation induced current on applied voltage, geometry, dose, and dose rate is contrasted for Mylar*, polystyrene, mica, tantalum, glass, and ceramic capacitors. These effects are analyzed in terms of models appropriate for the various capacitors, and values of parameters defining these relationships are given. The relative effectiveness of neutron and gamma radiation in producing induced currents in these capacitive elements at the reactor environment was also obtained.