A neutron detector for (p,np) coincidence studies

A neutron detector with moderate energy resolution (∼3 MeV) has been built for neutrons in the energy range 75-175 MeV. The detector was designed for coincidence scattering experiments. The design eliminates the need for long neutron flight paths necessary for comparable energy resolution time-of-flight measurements with a comparable efficiency-solid angle product (0.02 msr). The detector consists of thin plastic scintillators in which the neutron undergoes n-p elastic scattering. The second-scattered protons are tracked by drift chambers and detected in a sodium iodide array. The design motivations and features are presented along with results from detailed in-beam experimental tests.