A new compact D-T pulsed neutron generator system suitable for non-destructive analysis applications

A compact neutron generator system has been developed for non-destructive analysis applications using 14 MeV neutrons. The system is based on a rugged sealed-tube Deuterium-Tritium fusion neutron generator used for oil-well logging measurements. The neutron generator system consists of a D-T generator in a compact, sealed housing connected via a cable harness to a power and control electronics module. A demountable, portable PC provides automated operation with input of the desired neutron output, pulse width and pulse frequency. The PC can be operated in a “slave” mode where the neutron output is controlled by an external data acquisition system. The neutron generator operates at 100 kV and produces an average neutron output of 2×10 ⁸ neutrons/second. The system can be operated with a continuous neutron output or in a pulsed mode with a pulse frequency up to 15 kHz and a pulse width of 10 μs or greater. The rise and fall times of the neutron pulse, measured with a plastic scintillator and photomultiplier, are under 1.25 μs