A Compact Neutron Generator

40870 November 13, 1996 Science Research Laboratory, Inc. Several verification technologies for nuclear nonproliferation treaties use techniques that are based upon Prompt Neutron Activation (PNA) and neutron inelastic scattering. However, the use of neutrons is severely limited by the lack of an adequate electronic source. This project will develop a compact neutron generator to be used in devices for nuclear non-proliferation treaty verification. In Phase I, a neutron generator consisting of a compact (1.1 m length, 0.65 m dia.), lightweight (120 kgm) and low power (kW) accelerator (100 ¿A beam of D+ ions at 600 keV) and a 9Be target will be brought to final engineering design. This generator will produce 2 x 109 n/s (> 2 x 1010 n/s with increased target cooling) with a lifetime of >2000 hrs MTBF. Phase I will also test a novel tritiated titanium target design that is expected to increase tritium target lifetime tenfold for applications requiring higher neutron yields. In Phase II, the neutron generator will be fabricated and evaluated in the field. Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: The applications of a low cost, long lived, compact neutron source in industry and medicine are widespread, ranging from quality control in advanced manufacturing systems to explosives and contraband detection.