Gamma-blind transformational nuclear particle sensors

Purdue University is developing novel, multi-purpose tension metastable fluid nuclear particle detectors (TMFDs) by which multiple types of nuclear particles can be detected with high (90%+) intrinsic efficiency, directional specificity, spectroscopic capability, rapid response, large standoff and significant cost-savings compared with state-of-the-art systems. This paper presents uses of these novel detector systems specifically for neutron detection in the presence of extreme gamma fields. Various experimental results are presented in order to illustrate the unique ability of the TMFDs to discriminate out photon flux in the presence of neutron or alpha sources. Finally, a theoretical analysis is performed building upon experimental data which estimates the ultimate limits for gamma rejection/discrimination ability to be ~ 10²³ γ/cc/s.