A new intense neutron tool for radiography and detection of water and ground contaminants

Advances in ion sources and gamma ray detection at LBNL are being applied to enhance neutron logging tools. A RF-driven plasma ion source has been miniaturized to the 2 inch diameter necessary for most underground uses. The ion current produced is >80% monatomic, and is projected to produce a neutron flux of 10⁹-10¹⁰ neutrons/sec, an enhancement of 1-2 orders of magnitude over the state-of-the-art. A 1.5×1.5×1 cm³ CdZnTe gamma detector is also being developed for the tool. This detector has relatively high efficiency, good energy resolution, and room temperature operation. Results of 3D Monte Carlo calculations are presented which show the enhancements in sensitivity and range possible with the new technology