| abstract |
Micro neutron detectors include relatively small pockets of gas including a neutron reactive material. During use, under a voltage bias in a neutron environment, neutron interactions in the neutron reactive material are seen to occur. Ultimately, electron-ion pairs form and positive ions drift to a cathode and electrons to the anode. The motion of charges then produces an induced current that is sensed and measurable, thereby indicating the presence of neutrons. Preferred pocket volumes range from a few cubic microns to about 1200 mm 3 ; neutron reactive materials include fissionable, fertile or fissile material (or combinations), such as 235 U, 238 U, 233 U, 232 Th, 239 Pu, 10 B, 6 Li and 6 LiF; gasses include one or more of argon, P-10, 3 He, BF 3 , BF 3 , CO 2 , Xe, C 4 H 10 , CH 4 , C 2 H 6 , CF 4 , C 3 H 8 , dimethyl ether, C 3 H 6 and C 3 H 8 . Arrangements include two- and three-piece sections, arrays (including or not triads capable of performing multiple detecting functions) and/or capillary channels. |