Predictive capability of material screening by fast neutron activation analysis using laser-driven neutron sources

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics
• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Fast neutron activation analysis (FNAA) is a nondestructive technique for elemental composition analysis.
• Traditional FNAA faces challenges with spectral interference in complex samples.
• Laser-driven neutron sources (LANSs) offer novel capabilities for neutron-based analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and predictive capability of LANS-based FNAA for material screening.
• To demonstrate the effectiveness of pulsed neutron beams and time-resolved measurements in FNAA.
• To assess the accuracy of elemental analysis with modest neutron fluences.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing bright, short-pulsed neutron beams from LANSs.
• Performing time-resolved gamma-ray spectroscopy.
• Employing Monte Carlo simulations for spectral calculations and predictive modeling.
• Conducting experimental demonstrations of LANS-based FNAA.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated practical application of FNAA with neutron fluences as low as 10^5 n/cm^2.
• Showcased mitigation of spectral interference using time-resolved gamma-ray measurements.
• Achieved highly accurate screening of complex multi-elemental samples.
• Validated predictive capabilities through experimental results and simulations.

Conclusions:

• LANS-based FNAA is a viable and powerful technique for material screening.
• Time-resolved measurements significantly enhance accuracy and reduce spectral interference.
• Current laser technology can provide sufficient neutron fluences for practical FNAA applications.
• This approach offers a new perspective for nondestructive elemental analysis.