Neutron generator - with a target of heavy water vapour - bombarded by deuterons

摘要

Vapour of heavy water is circulated through a cell with fine mesh walls, and which acts as the target for a beam of deuterons. Collisions between the deuterium or tritium atoms in the vapour and the beam produce a steadier output of neutrons than use of a metal target. The vapour which passes out from the cell is condensed by a cooling jacket surrounding the tubing.