A fast pulse, intermediate flux, bench-top, high rep-rate x-ray source for PRS diagnostic calibration

Presently, commercial and government radiation test facilities do not have convenient, reliable calibration systems for routine, day-in, day-out checks on x-ray and neutron detectors or their filter arrays. Lack of such calibration systems compromises the quality of the testing, and leads to wasted time and manpower resources used to resolve the ensuing uncertainties. We are developing a compact, reliable, cost-effective soft x-ray and neutron source that can be used to calibrate x-ray and neutron-sensitive detectors and their associated filters for scientific and homeland security applications in both government and commercial laboratories. In Phase I we built a breadboard pulsed x-ray source, optimized its output, and demonstrated its utility for calibrating x-ray detectors. In Phase II we will build a prototype x-ray and neutron source, demonstrating long life and reliability in a system that can be replicated at a reasonable cost. Outside users will be able to use the system to calibrate their detectors.