Zada Ilan Cohen, Osovizky Alon, Orion Itzhak
Nuclear Engineering Unit, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
Electronics & Control Laboratories, Nuclear Research Center Negev, Dimona, Israel.
Sci Rep. 2024 Dec 28;14(1):31446. doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-83129-5.
This study proposes a novel, highly sensitive neutron detector design utilizing a unique multi-layered configuration. Each layer consists of a LiF: ZnS(Ag) scintillator coupled with a transparent neutron moderator that also functions as a light guide for the Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) light sensor. This design offers a cost-effective and readily available alternative for existing neutron detectors. The research focused on optimizing a single layer for maximum sensitivity and proper gamma rejection capabilities. This optimized configuration is then replicated to form the multi-layer detector. A primary challenge with the LiF:ZnS(Ag) scintillator is its inherent opacity, limiting its width and consequently, its detection efficiency. Our proposed multi-layer structure addresses this limitation by employing a thin scintillator in each layer. This strategic design minimizes emitted light attenuation while simultaneously enhancing sensitivity through the cumulative effect of multiple layers. Our experiments demonstrate a significant improvement in detection efficiency compared to the single-layer setup. Additionally, our architecture offers an actual improvement in differentiating between gamma and neutron signals. By analyzing count rates across the detector's layers, we gain valuable operational insights, such as the ability to predict the source direction. Our finding demonstrates an improved sensitivity achieved by minimal loss of neutrons during the moderation of 329% compared to a single layer, aligned with the potential range of improvement while maintaining extremely high gamma rejection. Supported by the presented findings, this design represents a noticeable advancement over existing solutions, offering scalable customization to user requirements. Notably, it outperforms traditional He tube-based detection configurations, positioning it as a compelling and advantageous replacement option.
本研究提出了一种新颖的、高灵敏度的中子探测器设计，采用独特的多层结构。每一层都由一个LiF:ZnS(Ag)闪烁体与一个透明中子慢化剂耦合而成，该慢化剂还用作硅光电倍增管（SiPM）光传感器的光导。这种设计为现有的中子探测器提供了一种经济高效且易于获得的替代方案。该研究专注于优化单层以实现最大灵敏度和适当的伽马射线排除能力。然后复制这种优化配置以形成多层探测器。LiF:ZnS(Ag)闪烁体的一个主要挑战是其固有的不透明度，这限制了其宽度，进而限制了其探测效率。我们提出的多层结构通过在每一层中采用薄闪烁体来解决这一限制。这种策略性设计将发射光的衰减降至最低，同时通过多层的累积效应提高灵敏度。我们的实验表明，与单层设置相比，探测效率有显著提高。此外，我们的架构在区分伽马射线和中子信号方面有实际改进。通过分析探测器各层的计数率，我们获得了有价值的操作见解，例如预测源方向的能力。我们的研究结果表明，与单层相比，在慢化过程中中子损失最小，灵敏度提高了329%，符合潜在的改进范围，同时保持了极高的伽马射线排除能力。在所呈现的研究结果的支持下，这种设计代表了相对于现有解决方案的显著进步，能够根据用户需求进行可扩展定制。值得注意的是，它优于传统的基于氦管的探测配置，使其成为一个有吸引力且具有优势的替代选项。
