Fast Neutron Imaging Scintillator with Low Sensitivity to Gamma Radiation

The detectors available for neutron radiation are still inadequate, primarily limited by the available scintillators. Scintillators that can simultaneously provide high spatial resolution, high neutron detection efficiency, low gamma sensitivity, and fast response time do not exist. This project will develop a structured scintillator that channels light to a digital optical detector, promoting very high spatial resolution, even for the thick scintillators needed for high detection efficiency. The structured scintillator will be inexpensive, will have low gamma sensitivity, and will have a response time of 2 ns. Phase I demonstrated the feasibility of producing the structured scintillator. High spatial resolution and fast decay time were demonstrated, with excellent luminescence under neutron excitation. Phase II will optimize scintillator compositions and parameters of the process. A special neutron-sensitive glass, for producing neutron-sensitive capillary array substrates, will be developed. This new development will improve the overall neutron stopping power of the proposed sensors. Large area prototype sensors will be fabricated and evaluated at neutron beam facilities, in order to demonstrate their efficacy for incorporation into advanced high resolution neutron detectors. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The structured scintillator should find widespread applications in neutron radiography and neutron crystallography. Detectors based on the proposed scintillator could be employed at any neutron source facility and would help advance basic research in material science, protein mechanisms research, and drug design. Further applications could be found in non-destructive testing and secuity scanning at entry ports and strategic facilities.