Detection of fast neutrons using a new scintillating-fiber-array neutron detector

A new scintillating-fiber-array neutron detector was used in the fast neutron detection and spectroscopy. Two pulse height spectra for 2.5- and 14-MeV neutrons were obtained and compared. Differences of the pulse height spectra for 14 MeV neutrons at different applied voltages were measured and analyzed as well. Other two feasible methods are proposed in the calibration of the absolute sensitivity for the detector. The experimental results show that compared to conventional scintillating fiber detectors, this detector exhibits two distinct properties: (1) high neutron-to-gamma sensitivity ratio, (2) apparent peak in the pulse height spectrum for 14 MeV neutrons.