Neutron-Gamma Scintillation Detector for Emergency Response

Current radiation detectors are typically capable of detecting only one type of radiation. Therefore, the current detection systems require a number of individual detectors to be used for each type of radiation. The development of the proposed nuclear detector significantly improves the capability to identify multiple modes of radiation (gamma-rays and neutrons) along with an enhanced gamma ray resolution compared to most commercial detectors.The goal of the proposed effort is to develop a single detector capable of detecting multiple modes of radiation (gamma-rays and neutrons) with an enhanced gamma ray resolution. The proposed detector also provides discrimination of gamma-rays from neutrons using a relatively straight forward pulse height analysis. In Phase I, we explored two promising scintillator candidates and selected the optimal material for continuation in Phase II for scale-up and detector construction. Concept design of the prototype detector was also developed in Phase I. Overall, the feasibility of the proposed approach was adequately demonstrated. The Phase II project will be aimed at optimization of manufacturing process for producing larger scintillation crystals, development & construction of detectors, and finally their evaluation (in-house and at INL) for simultaneous gamma and neutron detection. system capable of detection gamma and neutron radiations with high gamma ray resolution will easily find applications in nuclear non-proliferation. Moreover, fields such as nuclear physics, medical imaging, oil exploration and material sciences will benefit from this technology.