Portable API Neutron Generator

There is a need for higher brightness, higher speed electronic neutron generators for associated particle imaging to support the Department of Energy and National Nuclear Security Administration’s mission to protect the public from nuclear threats. The problem is being addressed by increasing the output of a neutron generator while simultaneously improving its spot size for sharper imaging. The technical approach merges existing technology of Starfire’s nGen-310—that has DOT-approved levels of pressurized SF6 and has sufficient output to meet the program objective—with ion beam focusing technology developed under the DARPA ICONS program to achieve the necessary spot size using D-T targets.The API detector integration on the grounded end of the nGen-310/ICONS unit will take advantage of Starfire’s grounded target approach for maximum imaging utilization. Phase I efforts will include merging those system features, design of an appropriate target to accommodate the associated particle detector requirements, identify either an existing associated particle detector or a collaborator to supply one, and identify key risks to promptly address in any Phase II effort.