Method, Device and Use of the Device for the Detection of Neutrons, and Reading and Processing Unit

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a device and method for detecting neutrons, especially thermal neutrons. The invention combines a scintillator material (which captures neutrons and emits photons upon neutron capture) with a pixelated photodetector, specifically a silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) operated in Geiger mode. The arrangement allows each pixel to be read individually, providing highly spatially resolved neutron detection, even in the presence of strong magnetic fields. Advanced readout and processing electronics enable efficient data handling and discrimination between neutron events and background gamma radiation.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Scientific neutron scattering experiments (such as small-angle neutron scattering) requiring high-resolution spatial neutron detection.
• Monitoring and imaging of nuclear waste for radioactive materials control and safety.
• Neutron imaging in material science for non-destructive testing and analysis.
• Detection and localization of illicit nuclear materials in security and customs screening (e.g., cargo, freight vehicles).
• Medical and biological research requiring neutron detection under magnetic fields.
• Monitoring neutron activity in nuclear reactors or spallation sources.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• High spatial resolution in neutron detection due to individually readable pixel elements.
• Operable in strong magnetic fields, unlike traditional photomultiplier tubes.
• Lower power consumption and simpler construction compared to conventional detectors.
• Improved discrimination between neutron events and gamma background, enhancing signal reliability.
• Scalable design (modular pixel arrays) for both large-area and portable neutron detectors.
• Fast response and high neutron count rates possible, suitable for demanding research or industrial environments.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device for the detection of neutrons, comprising a scintillator (3) that is designed to capture in particular thermal neutrons and to emit photons resulting from a neutron-capture incidence, and comprising a photodetector (4) which has a photo-sensitive surface (5) and is designed to detect the photons emitted from the scintillator (3) as a result of a neutron-capture incidence, wherein the photodetector (4) comprises avalanche photodiodes operated in Geiger mode, and is designed preferably as a silicon photomultiplier detector, wherein the scintillator (3) extends in front of the photo-sensitive surface (5) of the photodetector (4) and the photodetector (4) has a plurality of pixel elements (6), via which the photo-sensitive surface (5) is defined, wherein the photodetector (4) is designed in such a way that the pixel elements (6) can be read independently of one another. The invention also relates to a method for detecting neutrons, a use of a device for neutron detection, and a reading and processing unit.