Novel Large Area High Resolution Neutron Detector for the Spallation Neutron Source

79546S The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) facility, due for completion at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in 2006, will push available thermal neutron flux at least an order of magnitude above that achievable at any other neutron science facility. The markedly increased deliverable flux imposes extreme requirements on imaging detectors at many of the target stations. This project will develop a new detector technology, based on the 10-boron thin-film conversion of neutrons and the detection of reaction products in the gas of a thin straw detector. By using dense packed arrays of such straws, which can be as long as 1 meter, efficient high resolution imaging can be achieved with a quantum leap in integral and differential counting rates. Phase I will develop a 150 element sub-array of detectors having the full 1 meter length and required depth for a SNS detector. The sub-array will be configured so that a full 1 meter square detector can be constituted by replication of the single sub-array. The sub-array will be thoroughly tested in a thermal neutron beam to determine all operating specifications, including spatial resolution, differential and integral counting rate, gamma rejection, and neutron sensitivity. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology should extend the use of neutron scattering in materials science and structural biology applications. Potential applications include the development of improved drug therapies and materials that are stronger, longer-lasting, and more impact-resistant. The large area neutron imager also should find applications in other important areas including nuclear treaty verification and nuclear waste remediation.