ASTM E545 is a standard test method for determining image quality in direct thermal neutron radiographic examination. An Image Quality Indicator (IQI) system measures the relative quality of the radiographic pictures produced by direct thermal neutron radiography inspection. The values expressed in SI units should be considered standard. ASTM E545 (Standard Test Method for Determining Image Quality in Direct Thermal Neutron Radiographic Examination) is intended to provide quantitative data on neutron beam and image system parameters that affect film exposure and, as a result, overall image quality. It can be used to check the neutron radiography quality on a day-to-day basis.
ASTM E545 Standard Test Method for Determining Image Quality in Direct Thermal Neutron Radiographic Examination
What is ASTM E545?
What is the Scope of ASTM E545?
ASTM E545 is used to determine quantitative data on neutron beam and image system parameters that influence film exposure and, as a result, image quality. In addition, the Beam Purity Indicator (BPI) is used to check the neutron radiography quality on a day-to-day basis. The BPI is developed and tested using gadolinium conversion screens and single-emulsion silver-halide films exposed together in a neutron imaging beam. Evaluations of images from indicators exposed with the test object are used to judge the quality of a neutron radiograph.
ASTM E545 Equipment and Sample Preparation Guide
ASTM E545 uses an Image Quality Indicator (IQI) system to measure the relative quality of radiographic pictures produced by direct, thermal neutron radiography. The optical density of the background film should be in the range from 2.0 to 3.0 across the film and does not vary more than ±5%.
ASTM E545 Testing Procedure and Requirements
In the ASTM E545 test, a beam of radiation is directed perpendicularly on the film plane. Firstly, a conversion screen is used that responds to neutrons with thermal energy; exposure contributors are also calculated. Then, the value of G, H, and the sensitivity level is determined. Finally, neutron radiography parameters are determined, and images of the wire are compared visually in the BPI. When film size is limited, or the object is large, indicators may be exposed on another film immediately before or after the test object under the same conditions.
ASTM E545 Result Analysis and Interpretation
The standard test method ASTM E545 is used to determine quantitative data on neutron beam and image system parameters that influence film exposure and, as a result, image quality. The following data is calculated in ASTM E545 testing:
Effective thermal neutron content,
NC = ( (DH – (higher DB + ΔDL) x ½) x 100
Effective scattered neutron content
S = (∆DB/DH) × 100
Effective gamma content,
γ = (DT – lower DL)/DH × 100
Effective pair production content,
P = (∆DL/DH) × 100
The values stated in SI should be considered as standard.
Updated on August 28, 2026
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