Simulation of a D–T neutron source for neutron scattering experiments

A new generation of high-yield fusion-based neutron generators is being developed at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Novel design features provide the potential for neutron yields as high as 1014 n/s in a compact geometry. Such high neutron yields make the neutron generator applicable to the production of thermal or cold neutrons for neutron scattering experiments. This paper describes a scheme to simulate a neutron scattering setup and to estimate neutron flux and resolution with the particle transport code MCNP. For an estimated resolution of 1–4%, depending on the scattered angle and neutron energy, a thermal neutron flux at the sample position of 7×105 n/cm2 s has been estimated. Such a neutron generator is particularly suitable for cold neutron scattering experiments due to relatively longer flight times.