Development of a PGNAA facility based on compact D-T neutron generator for Er detection
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Updated: Nov 4, 2026

A Basic Positron Emission Tomography System Constructed to Locate a Radioactive Source in a Bi-dimensional Space
Published on: February 1, 2016
Abstract:
A prompt gamma-ray neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) facility based on a compact D-T neutron generator and an HPGe detector was developed for the determination of burnable poisons in plate-type nuclear fuel elements. Erbium was selected as a representative neutron absorber due to its high thermal neutron capture cross section and its potential application in advanced fuel designs. Prompt gamma-ray spectra of an Er plate sample were measured, and the characteristic 0.816 MeV gamma line from the 167Er(n,γ)168Er reaction was clearly identified. The mass detection limit of Er was evaluated to be 31.07 g for a measurement time of 1000 s. A detailed Monte Carlo model based on GAMOS was established. The calculated prompt gamma-ray counts agreed with experimental results within 15%, supporting its use for preliminary response estimation. This work confirms the feasibility of D-T neutron source-based PGNAA for Er detection and provides a validated framework for further optimization of facility design.
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