Modelling Gd-diamond and Gd-SiC neutron detectors

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Science and Engineering
• Materials Science
• Detector Physics

Background:

• Neutron detectors are crucial for nuclear applications.
• Gadolinium (Gd) is a promising material for neutron conversion layers.
• Efficient detection of thermal neutrons requires optimized detector designs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a Monte Carlo (MC) model for simulating neutron interactions in Gd.
• To evaluate the performance of diamond and silicon carbide (SiC) detectors for neutron detection.
• To determine the optimal Gd thickness for efficient thermal neutron detection.

Main Methods:

• A custom Monte Carlo (MC) computer model was created to simulate thermal neutron absorption in natural Gd.
• The MC code modeled photon and electron emission from Gd and their detection by diamond and 4H-SiC detectors.
• Quantum detection efficiencies (QE) for photons and electrons were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The MC model successfully simulated neutron conversion and particle emission from Gd.
• Electron detection showed higher quantum efficiency (QE) than photon detection for the chosen detectors.
• The optimal Gd thickness for efficient thermal neutron flux detection was determined.

Conclusions:

• The developed MC model is effective for optimizing neutron detector designs.
• Natural Gd combined with radiation-hard detectors offers a robust solution for thermal neutron detection.
• Potential applications include nuclear science, space science, and engineering.