Design and Implementation of Matryoshka-type Neutron Spectrometer

Area of Science:

• Nuclear instrumentation
• Radiation detection and measurement

Background:

• Traditional Bonner Sphere Spectrometers (BSS) are effective but bulky.
• There is a need for portable neutron spectrometers for field applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement a portable neutron spectrometer, the Matryoshka-type Neutron Spectrometer (MNS).
• To evaluate the MNS's portability and effectiveness compared to a BSS.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a spherical 3He proportional counter as the thermal neutron detector.
• Employed cylindrical acrylic cups with water as a moderator, adjustable in size.
• Adopted the Monte Carlo method to generate the energy response matrix.
• Resolved neutron spectra using a classical inversion algorithm.

Main Results:

• The MNS design significantly reduced mass and volume compared to BSS.
• Comparison tests demonstrated the MNS's effectiveness in measuring background and Am-Be source neutron spectra.
• The MNS proved to be easily portable and mobile.

Conclusions:

• The Matryoshka-type Neutron Spectrometer is a viable portable alternative to traditional BSS.
• The MNS design offers a practical solution for mobile neutron spectrum measurements.
• The effectiveness of the MNS was validated through comparative measurements.