Gamma-Insensitive Fast Neutron Detector with Spectral Source Identification Potential

Abstract

Calculations are presented to support the claim that fast neutron detection systems can achieve higher performance in detecting weak neutron sources than conventional thermal neutron detection systems involving moderators. Minimum Detectable Limits (MDL) are used as a comparative metric, more representative than the metric of absolute sensitivity, which does not take into account the influence of natural backgrounds. Monte Carlo simulations are used to show that heavily shielded neutron sources emit a substantial fraction of fast neutrons. Arguments are presented to support the claim that fast neutron detection systems are superior at defeating heavy neutron shielding than thermal systems.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 2011
Accession Number
ADA540497

Entities

People

  • Alexander Howard
  • Giovanna Davatz
  • Rico Chandra
  • Ulisse Gendotti

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Detection
  • Detectors
  • False Alarms
  • Fast Neutrons
  • Homeland Security
  • Materials
  • Measurement
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • National Security
  • Neutron Detectors
  • Neutrons
  • Particle Physics
  • Radiation
  • Security
  • Shielding
  • Thermal Neutrons
  • Warning Systems

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Adaptive Control and Estimation with Uncertainty in Dynamic Systems.
  • Nuclear and Radiation Engineering.
  • Sensor Fusion and Tracking Systems.