A high-resolution, imaging neutron beam monitor using gas microstrip technology

The development of a new, high-resolution, position-sensitive beam monitor for slow neutrons on the ISIS spallation neutron source is reported. Based on gas microstrip technology developed at RAL for particle physics applications, the monitor delivers high spatial resolution (σ=0.1 mm) combined with fast timing response, high data rate capability and low gamma sensitivity. A Monte Carlo model which simulates the interaction of a slow neutron with the gas microstrip detector permits the trade-off between spatial resolution and efficiency in the detector to be explored in the context of proposed applications on ISIS.