Title :
Perforated Semiconductor Neutron Detector Modules for Detection of Spontaneous Fission Neutrons
Author :
McGregor, Douglas S. ; Bellinger, Steven L. ; Bruno, David ; Cowley, Shawn ; Elazegui, Melanie ; McNeil, Walter J. ; Patterson, Eric ; Unruh, Troy ; Solomon, Clell J. ; Shultis, J. Kenneth ; Rice, Blake B.
Author_Institution :
Kansas State Univ., Manhattan
Abstract :
Compact neutron detectors are being designed and tested for use as low-power real-time personnel dosimeters and for remote neutron sensing. The neutron detectors are pin diodes that are mass produced from high-purity Si wafers. Each detector has thousands of circular perforations etched vertically into the device. The perforations are backfilled with 6LiF to make the pin diodes sensitive to thermal neutrons. The prototype devices delivered over 3.8% thermal neutron detection efficiency while operating on only 15 volts. The highest efficiency devices thus far have delivered over 12% thermal neutron detection efficiency. Devices moderated with high density polyethylene (HDPE) can be used for fast neutron detection. Compact packages with or without remote readout electronics are under construction and characterization.
Keywords :
dosimeters; neutron detection; semiconductor devices; compact neutron detectors; high density polyethylene; low-power real-time personnel dosimeters; perforated semiconductor neutron detector modules; pin diodes; remote neutron sensing; remote readout electronics; silicon wafers; spontaneous fission neutron detection; thermal neutron detection efficiency; Absorption; Coatings; Design engineering; Electronic packaging thermal management; Etching; Mass production; Neutrons; Radiation detectors; Schottky diodes; Semiconductor diodes;
Conference_Titel :
Technologies for Homeland Security, 2007 IEEE Conference on
Conference_Location :
Woburn, MA
Print_ISBN :
1-4244-1053-5
Electronic_ISBN :
1-4244-1053-5
DOI :
10.1109/THS.2007.370039
