Micro neutron detectors

摘要

Micro neutron detectors include relatively small pockets of gas including a neutron reactive material. During use, under a voltage bias in a neutron environment, neutron interactions in the neutron reactive material are seen to occur. Ultimately, electron-ion pairs form and positive ions drift to a cathode and electrons to the anode. The motion of charges then produces an induced current that is sensed and measurable, thereby indicating the presence of neutrons. Preferred pocket volumes range from a few cubic microns to about 1200 mm³; neutron reactive materials include fissionable, fertile or fissile material (or combinations), such as ²³⁵U, ²³⁸U, ²³³U, ²³²Th, ²³⁹Pu, ¹⁰B, ⁶Li and ⁶LiF; gasses include one or more of argon, P-10, ³He, BF₃, BF₃, CO₂, Xe, C₄H₁₀, CH₄, C₂H₆, CF₄, C₃H₈, dimethyl ether, C₃H₆ and C₃H₈. Arrangements include two- and three-piece sections, arrays (including or not triads capable of performing multiple detecting functions) and/or capillary channels.