A new type of neutron detector
Abstract
We are developing a new approach for a compact, high energy resolution neutron spectrometer. Our goal is to obtain an energy resolution of 0.1% in the 1-20 MeV energy range and a detection efficiency of at least 1%. These detectors are based on single neutron calorimetry at very low temperatures. A similar detection scheme implemented in our group for gamma-ray spectroscopy has provided an energy resolution of 0.1% at 60 keV . The neutron detection principle relies on the (n,a) reaction in 6Li and 10B. The reaction products following neutron capture lose their energy inside an absorber, whose temperature rise is measured by a very sensitive thermometer. Because of the large Q value of the reaction, the neutron spectrum is shifted towards higher energies, which provides good gamma ray discimination. A small prototype detector using a TiB2 absorber was tested using thermalized neutrons from a 252Cf source. The best energy resolution obtained was 5.5 keV for an energy deposition of 2.78 MeV (Q value + neutron energy). We will report on our current work to increase the active volume of the detector to a cubic centimeter.
- Publication:
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APS April Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- May 2004
- Bibcode:
- 2004APS..APRW15010N