Palm top plasma focus device as a portable pulsed neutron source

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Fusion and Plasma Physics
• Compact Neutron Source Development
• Portable Scientific Instrumentation

Background:

• Plasma focus devices are known neutron sources but are typically large and complex.
• Miniaturization of plasma focus technology is crucial for broader accessibility and field applications.
• Existing portable neutron sources often face limitations in cost, size, or neutron yield.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first development of a palm-top plasma focus device.
• To achieve significant neutron generation from a highly portable system.
• To demonstrate a low-cost and reusable neutron source.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a compact capacitor bank (4x 2 μF electrolytic capacitors) and a triggered open air spark gap switch.
• Employed a sealed miniature plasma focus tube with specific dimensions (2.9 cm inner diameter, 5 cm length).
• Powered the system using rechargeable batteries and a DC-to-DC converter, operating at energies as low as 36 J.

Main Results:

• Achieved a neutron yield of (5.2 ± 0.8) × 10^4 neutrons/pulse with a 15 ± 3 ns pulse width.
• The complete system weighs less than 1.5 kg and has dimensions of approximately 14 cm diameter and 12.5 cm length.
• Demonstrated neutron production at various operating energies and confirmed device reusability with single gas filling.

Conclusions:

• The developed palm-top plasma focus device represents a significant advancement in portable neutron generation technology.
• Its low weight, compact size, and cost-effectiveness make it suitable for field deployment.
• This technology opens possibilities for new applications requiring accessible, on-demand neutron sources.