Energy-resolved fast-neutron radiography using an event-mode neutron imaging detector

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics
• Materials Science
• Non-Destructive Testing

Background:

• Energy-resolved fast-neutron radiography is a non-destructive technique for elemental and isotopic analysis.
• It relies on comparing energy-dependent neutron transmission with known isotope cross-sections.
• Conventional detectors struggle to achieve the necessary nanosecond temporal resolution for pulsed neutron sources without compromising spatial resolution or efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel scintillator-based event-mode imaging detector for fast neutron resonance radiography.
• To demonstrate the capability of this detector for spatially mapped resonance profiling using MeV neutrons.
• To overcome the limitations of conventional detectors in achieving high temporal and spatial resolution simultaneously.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a scintillator-based event-mode imaging detector at a short-pulsed neutron source.
• Recording individual neutron interactions with nanosecond temporal precision and sub-millimeter spatial resolution.
• Employing a thick scintillator screen and lenses for a flexible field of view and high interaction probability.

Main Results:

• Achieved first results on spatially mapped resonance profiles using MeV neutrons.
• Demonstrated the ability to measure the entire neutron energy spectrum for each pulse.
• Validated the event-mode approach for high-precision neutron imaging.

Conclusions:

• The developed detector offers a unique approach to fast neutron resonance radiography.
• It enables precise, spatially resolved elemental and isotopic analysis with MeV neutrons.
• This technique holds significant potential for non-destructive analysis in various scientific and industrial applications.