Neutron detection in a high gamma ray background with liquid scintillators

The capability of liquid scintillator (namely 2” x 2” cells of EJ301 and EJ309) of detecting neutrons in a very high gamma ray background is explored. A weak 252-Cf source has been detected in a high 137-Cs gamma ray background corresponding to a dose rate of 100 uSv/h with probability of detection in compliance with IEC requirements for hand held instruments. Tests were performed with new generation of CAEN digitizers, in particular the V1720 (8 Channel 12bit 250 MS/s) one