Event-based high-resolution neutron image formation analysis using intensified CMOS cameras

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Optics
• Nuclear Instrumentation

Background:

• High-resolution neutron imaging is crucial for material analysis and non-destructive testing.
• Existing methods often lack the ability to resolve individual neutron absorption events.
• Optimizing scintillator performance requires detailed understanding of light emission characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a versatile optical setup for high-resolution neutron imaging.
• To evaluate the performance of different neutron scintillators using an event-based acquisition method.
• To analyze the factors limiting resolution in neutron imaging systems.

Main Methods:

• Development of a versatile optical setup with adaptable field of view and magnification.
• Utilizing an image intensifier and CMOS camera for event mode acquisition.
• Neutron radiography measurements using a Siemens star pattern with Gadolinium Gallium Garnet (GGG) and Gadolinium Oxysulfide (GOS) scintillators.

Main Results:

• The optical setup can resolve individual neutron absorption events.
• Both GGG and GOS scintillators achieved similar resolutions (4-5 µm) in event mode.
• GOS resolution is limited by light cluster size due to photon scattering; GGG resolution is limited by lower light conversion efficiency.

Conclusions:

• The event-based evaluation method provides a more detailed analysis of scintillator performance than conventional methods.
• The proposed optical setup enables quantification and optimization of design parameters for neutron imaging systems.
• Understanding light emission characteristics is key to improving neutron imaging resolution.