Abstract

A procedure is described that allows fission tracks in a low uranium mica external detector to be counted automatically using image analysis. An important first step in the procedure is to generate images of fission tracks that are in a suitable format for image analysis and measurement. This is achieved using scanning confocal laser microscopy (SLM), a relatively new optical technique that allows high-resolution images to be made at narrow (100 nm) depths of field. Unlike conventional fission track analysis, which relies on transmitted light to view tracks, SLM images are electronic and thus in a more suitable format for image analysis. The effectiveness of the analysis is demonstrated using an SLM surface image of a slice of mica containing induced fission tracks produced during thermal neutron irradiation. Using image-analysis techniques, the fission tracks, which show up as polygonal holes in the mica detector, can be segmented and counted rapidly. Other variables measured during the analysis include area and aspect ratio.