Structured Scintillator for High Resolution, High Efficiency Neutron Imaging

The development of new high-intensity neutron sources such as the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) will place demanding requirements on detector performance, because current state-of-the-art detectors are limited by the characteristics of the phosphor screen used to convert the incident neutron flux to visible light. In order to address these issues with current scintillator technology, this project will develop a novel large-area, high-spatial-resolution, high-efficiency, fast, neutron-sensitive scintillator with very low ¿-ray sensitivity. The structured nature of the scintillator will help channel light to the digital optical detector, promoting very high spatial resolution. In Phase I, a 2.5 x 2.5 cm2 prototype sensor will be fabricated and evaluated using a novel CCD-based detector. The effectiveness of the sensor will be demonstrated by neutron radiographic imaging of various test phantoms.Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The structured scintillator could be employed at any neutron source facility to enhance the performance of detector systems, which would help to advance basic research in materials science, in the understanding of protein mechanisms, and in developing new drugs. Further applications are likely in non-destructive testing, real-time radiography, and security scanning at entry ports and strategic facilities.