High-efficiency microstructured semiconductor neutron detectors that are arrayed, dual-integrated, and stacked
Steven L Bellinger1, Ryan G Fronk, Timothy J Sobering
1Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA. slb3888@ksu.edu
Summary
New silicon diode neutron detectors using 3D microstructures and lithium fluoride (LiF) show higher efficiency. Detector stacking and arraying methods significantly boost thermal neutron sensitivity for advanced applications.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear instrumentation
- Materials science
Background:
- Conventional neutron detectors often rely on thin-film coatings, which can limit detection efficiency.
- Silicon diodes offer a potential platform for solid-state neutron detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance neutron detection efficiency using advanced silicon diode structures.
- To investigate the effectiveness of detector stacking and arraying for thermal neutron detection.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of silicon diodes with large aspect ratio 3D microstructures.
- Backfilling microstructures with lithium fluoride (6LiF).
- Employing detector stacking and 6x6-element arraying techniques.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated significantly increased neutron detection efficiency compared to planar devices.
- Achieved a 6.8% intrinsic detection efficiency for thermal neutrons (0.0253 eV) with the 6x6 array.
- Validated performance against a calibrated helium-3 (3He) proportional counter.
Conclusions:
- 3D microstructured silicon diodes filled with 6LiF represent a promising advancement in neutron detection technology.
- Detector stacking and arraying methods are effective in dramatically increasing thermal neutron sensitivity.
- This technology offers a viable alternative to traditional neutron detectors.
