46
A
GEM of a Neutron Detector--Instrumentation
Associates,
Dr.
R. Berliner, Principal Investigator, berliner@instrumentationassocites.com
Dr.
R. Berliner, Business Official, berliner@instrumentationassocites.com
DOE
Grant No. DE-FG02-03ER83685
Amount: $99,988
Current
neutron detectors will not be able to adequately handle the expected instrument
data rates at the DOE’s new neutron beam research facilities, nor do they have
sufficient position and time resolution. This
project will develop a new class of neutron detectors that employ the gaseous
electron multiplier (GEM). These
detectors not only will have significantly better position and time resolution
than current instruments but also will be easier to build. In
Phase I, a prototype GEM detector will be fabricated to demonstrate its
efficiency, gamma-ray sensitivity, and position and time resolution. The
detector will employ a gadolinium foil to capture neutrons with the release of
electrons that form the detector signal. Measurements
at a pulsed neutron beam laboratory will provide the basis for optimizing and
improving the detector design.
Commercial Applications and Other
Benefits
as described by awardee: The GEM
should find use in optical and X-Ray detection, such as for homeland security
applications (baggage, freight screening), because large detectors can be
economically fabricated. Also, it
would be a possible replacement for fragile and expensive glass photomultiplier
tubes, and can fulfill many of the same functions as an image intensifier.