Non-Radiactive Alternative to Replace Radioactive Sources in Commercial Applications

Design, build, test and evaluate an engineering prototype neutron generator for Am-Be replacement that is to scale and function to simulate ruggedness and suitability for borehole applications. In Phase II, Starfire will develop the most difficult tool for design and evaluation, the 1-11/16” bore tool for 2” cased oil/gas wells, which has the greatest market application. The unit output will be based on the D-D fusion reaction sufficient to replace the 4-Ci Am-Be source used on the 2” cased wellbore porosity tool. Starfire will perform testing and analysis under equivalent environmental and physical conditions by leveraging existing evaluation and manufacturing resources with a Phase II cost-matching & manufacturing partner. At the conclusion of Phase II, an arrangement with an industrial well logger/end-user will be obtained for subsequent field trials to evaluate efficacy, setting the stage for Phase III commercialization. The proposed neutron source technology with low cost-of-ownership will enable industrial users to transition to a non-radioactive alternative. In addition, there are other homeland security applications that will benefit from a compact source