High Resolution Hybrid MCP Detector for Thermal Neutrons

65015 A hybrid microchannel plate imaging detector for thermal neutrons, capable of both high detection efficiency and exceptional resolution, would provide a significant technology advance for neutron physics. This project will develop an electron avalanche detector using boron-based glass, where a much higher concentration of boron is presented to interact with the neutron. The thermal neutron detector is based upon capture and conversion with a boron enriched microsphere electron multiplier, in which boron-containing glass microspheres are combined with a microchannel plate. Ultimately the system will be capable of <10 micron resolution, and very high quantum detection response. Phase I will melt and spheroidize a boron-based glass into 20-40 micron diameter spheres. This will be combined with a larger format microchannel plate electron multiplier. Prototypes will first be evaluated with electrons and subsequently tested with thermal neutrons. Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by awardee: The technology should have application to neutron radiography, fuel cells, membrane analysis, hydrogen transport, non-destructive evaluation (NDE), nuclear materials inspection, nuclear reactor control, neutron diffraction, and scattering.