Ultra-portable Associated Particle Imaging (API) neutron source

The proliferation of nuclear weapons presents unparalleled danger, critical to preventing the spread of such weapons of mass destruction is the detection and characterization of both the production and movement of special nuclear materials. Neutron interrogation techniques, including Associated Particle Imaging (API), are valuable tools in this effort, but the limited capability of portable neutron systems tightly constrains their application. A high yield, battery operated, Ultraportable Associated Particle Imaging neutron generator is being developed to enable imaging of the elemental composition of an object. Improvements in imaging resolution are being achieved using fiberoptic faceplates developed by different companies, during their own SBIR programs. A battery-operated Deuterium-Tritium Associated Particle Imaging neutron generator, capable of producing 10^9 neutrons/second with only 50 Watts was developed. This involved developing a miniature, low power ion source, which was integrated into the neutron generator along with a miniature high voltage power supply and radio frequency supply. A target-assembly capable of mounting a fiberoptic faceplate window to detect Associated Particles emitted from the target was developed. A 14.1 MeV neutron generator with a small neutron emission spot size, high yield of 10^9 neutrons per second, that can operate at 50 watts was developed in Phase I and II. During Phase IIA, several fiberoptic faceplate windows from vendors will be tested to ensure that they can survive the manufacturing process which includes an extensive bakeout step. Fiberoptic faceplates will then be integrated into neutron generator tubes and operated. Two complete Ultraportable neutron generators will be constructed which will employ these fiberoptic faceplates. The generators will be loaded with the correct deuterium-tritium mixture to enable 14.1 MeV operation and their operation tested. API systems allow 3D compositional analysis of a scene. For security, this can be used for screening luggage and baggage, or potentially vehicles or cargo containers. Neutron interrogation has the potential to detect and image nuclear materials including uranium and plutonium, even when it is shielded by neutron and gamma absorbing or scattering materials. This API system could be used for mining, and non-destructive testing of structures, such as buildings and bridges. The 3D volumetric composition may be determined and any voids, or corrosion identified.