A detector for neutron imaging

A bright neutron source such as the spallation neutron source (SNS) places extreme requirements on detectors including excellent 2-D spatial imaging and high dynamic range. Present imaging detectors have either shown position resolutions that are less than acceptable or they exhibit excessive paralyzing dead times due to the brightness of the source. A detector concept known as MicroMegas (MicroMEsh GAseous Structure) has been developed at CERN, Geneva, Switzerland, for high-energy physics charged-particle tracking applications and has shown great promise for handling high data rates with a rather low-cost structure. We are attempting to optimize the MicroMegas detector concept for thermal neutrons and have designed a 1-D neutron strip detector utilizing solid converters which we have tested. In addition, we are performing research into the compatibility of various converter coatings. Our goal is to develop a manufacturable detector that could be scaled to a 1 m², 2-D array for use at the SNS and other facilities.