Performance of digital algorithms for n/γ pulse shape discrimination using a liquid scintillation detector

We have investigated the use of digital data acquisition techniques to analyze the performance of pulse shape discrimination from a liquid scintillation detector in mixed neutron/gamma radiation fields. Three digital pulse shape discrimination methods were explored, applied to pulses digitized from a liquid scintillator using a high-speed waveform digitizer. The various features of these digital discrimination techniques are discussed and quality of the resulting n/γ pulse shape discrimination is compared. The digital approach is useful with regard to developing a compact neutron monitor that is capable of fast neutron spectroscopy in the presence of strong mixed n/γ radiation fields.