Optimisation of fast-neutron detection efficiency and spatial resolution for a radiographic imaging system

The fact that an increase in the spatial resolution of a fast-neutron imaging system leads to the degradation of the detector efficiency, is known as the detector problem. Here, this problem is described. Further, a method is proposed to optimise the detector efficiency depending on the properties of the imaging system given a required spatial resolution. The line-spread function of the imaging system in combination with the scintillator is calculated. The standard deviation of this function is parameterised, enabling the optimisation of the imaging system parameters for optimum detector efficiency.