PENELOPE-2008 Monte Carlo simulation of gamma exposure induced by 60Co and NORM-radionuclides in closed geometries

Abstract We present Monte Carlo simulations of the gamma exposure in closed rooms made of steel or concrete and contaminated by 60 Co or NORM radionuclides. The computer code PENELOPE-2008 ( Salvat et al., 2009 ) was used. Our simulations for 60 Co suggest considering detailed Monte Carlo simulations in future recommendations on clearance and exemption of materials with low radioactivity. For NORM nuclides our calculations suggest that Monte Carlo simulations are a possible alternative in case a material fails the dose rate criteria by using the RP 112 screening method.