Neutron Detection With a Lithium Fluoride Bolometer

138 Neutron Detection With a Lithium Fluoride Bolometer--Princeton Electronic Systems, Inc., P.O. Box 8627, Princeton, NJ 08543-8627; (609) 799-5414 Dr. Junwei Zhou, Principal Investigator Dr. Chuni L. Ghosh, Business Official DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-97ER82462 Amount: $74,975 The Department of Energy requires improved neutron detectors with better energy resolution and detection efficiency for nuclear physics research. More standardization, better calibration, and low cost are needed. This project will develop a novel neutron detector based on calorimetric methods that offers both high resolution and high detection efficiency at least an order of magnitude greater than existing detectors. The detector will employ a lithium fluoride bolometer in which lithium-6 serves as the neutron absorber. Only conventional cryostat cooling is needed. This detection method also allows neutron spectroscopy to be performed using simple techniques similar to those employed in X- and gamma-ray spectroscopy. In the first phase of the program, a prototype detector will be designed and fabricated and its performance will be evaluated. Phase II will optimize detector design and fabrication. A completed unit, including the detector, electronics and the associated cryogenic components, will be developed during Phase II of the program. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: This unique neutron detector combines high detection efficiency with high energy resolution. It would find many applications in high energy physics and nuclear physics as well as in neutron radiography and environmental neutron monitoring.