Pixel-Cell Neutron Detector and Read-Out System Meeting Requirements of Present and Future Neutron Scattering Facilities

65491 Currently available position-sensitive neutron detectors limit the full utilization of beam power and resolution capabilities of existing and proposed steady-state and pulsed neutron scattering facilities used in materials research. To remove these limitations, this project will develop neutron detectors using a novel pixel-cell design in a modular configuration. The self-contained detector modules will be grouped into versatile, large-area detector arrays of customized size and resolution. In Phase I, solutions to basic design and fabrication problems with pixel-cell detector modules were found; demonstration modules were developed and tested; and connector plates, interfaces, and the electronic systems architecture also were developed. In Phase II, the basic concepts will be expanded, necessary production facilities for manufacturing a line of detector modules will be developed and built, prototypic microcircuits will be fabricated, and full scale evaluation modules will be built. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The modular pixel-cell detector technology should find immediate application at existing or future neutron scattering facilities. Not only does this open a significant market worldwide, but also greatly enhances the utilization of power and resolution capabilities of these facilities, which are currently limited by the characteristics of existing neutron detectors.