Neutron Detector Unit and Neutron Detector Arrangement

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This invention relates to a neutron detector unit and arrangement, especially for detecting thermal and cold neutrons. The core innovation resides in the use of a gas-filled detector housing where anode and cathode elements are arranged to provide three-dimensional spatial resolution of neutron conversion events. The arrangement and orientation of electrodes, particularly the alignment of a majority of anode elements parallel to the neutron travel direction, enables the construction of large, highly efficient volumetric detectors with reduced dead zones and the ability to accurately track where and when neutron interactions occur.

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

• Neutron detection in scientific instruments such as neutron scattering experiments or spallation sources.
• Security screening for illicit nuclear and radioactive materials at ports or border crossings.
• Industrial applications monitoring nuclear reactors or materials handling.
• Medical imaging and radiotherapy systems that use neutron detection.
• Fundamental physics experiments, including particle and nuclear physics research.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Three-dimensional spatial resolution for precise localization of neutron interactions.
• Scalable design permits large-area and high-efficiency neutron detection.
• Reduced dead zones due to innovative electrode configuration, improving measurement coverage.
• Ability to use lower gas pressures simplifies construction and improves detector longevity, and enables thinner entrance windows for higher neutron transmission.
• Supports use of various converter gases, offering flexibility in sensitivity and operational requirements.
• Enhanced ability to discriminate between neutron events and background (such as gamma radiation), leading to more reliable measurements.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a neutron detector unit for neutrons, in particular thermal and cold neutrons, comprising a detector housing (7, 17, 27), cathode elements and a plurality of anode elements (5, 15, 25), wherein in order to form a volume detector unit the anode elements (5, 15, 25) and the cathode elements enable a three-dimensional spatial resolution for conversion events, characterised by a converter gas in the detector housing (7, 17, 27). According to the invention, in a neutron detector arrangement which includes at least one neutron detector unit the neutron detector unit (3, 13, 23) or at least one of the neutron detector units (3, 13, 23) is oriented in such a way that at least some of the anode elements (5, 15, 25) of the at least one neutron detector unit (3, 13, 23) extend at least predominantly in a longitudinal orientation parallel or almost parallel to the direction of travel of the neutrons (4) to be detected.