Gamma-Free Neutron Detector Based upon Lithium Phosphate Nanoparticles

Wallace, Steven

Neutron Sciences, Inc.

关键词: Lithium 6;    Proliferation;    Plastics;    Photons;    Fibers;   

DOI  :  10.2172/913098
RP-ID  :  ER84637
RP-ID  :  FG02-06ER84637
RP-ID  :  913098

美国|英语

来源: UNT Digital Library

【 摘 要 】

A gamma-free neutron-sensitive scintillator is needed to enhance radiaition sensing and detection for nonproliferation applications. Such a scintillator would allow very large detectors to be placed at the perimeter of spent-fuel storage facilities at commercial nuclear power plants, so that any movement of spontaneously emitted neutrons from spent nuclear fuel or weapons grade plutonium would be noted in real-time. This task is to demonstrate that the technology for manufacturing large panels of fluor-doped plastic containing lithium-6 phosphate nanoparticles can be achieved. In order to detect neutrons, the nanoparticles must be sufficiently small so that the plastic remains transparent. In this way, the triton and alpha particles generated by the capture of the neutron will result in a photon burst that can be coupled to a wavelength shifting fiber (WLS) producing an optical signal of about ten nanoseconds duration signaling the presence of a neutron emitting source.