Film Implementation of a Neutron Detector (FIND): Critical Materials Properties

摘要

The research described in this report addresses the need for efficient and convenient inspection of buildings, vehicles, persons, and other places for concealed nuclear materials (such as uranium or plutonium) that are used or capable of being used in nuclear weapons. One way to determine the presence of nuclear materials is to detect the neutrons that are emitted from the atomic nucleus of these materials in the radioactive decay process. The FIND project is a research and development investigation of a new type of solid- state thermal neutron detector, potentially providing improvements in sensitivity, size, weight, power consumption, operator safety, transportability, and cost compared to current neutron detector technology. The objective of the project phase covered by this report was to develop a reproducible FIND device based on insulating boron nitride films or thin sheets, guided by the key materials properties needed for a workable device.