Optimizing the design of a moderator-based neutron detector for a flat response curve in the 2–14 MeV energy range

• Published in: Nuclear instruments & methods in physics research. Section A, Accelerators, spectrometers, detectors and associated equipment Vol. 609; no. 2; pp. 213 - 216
• Main Authors: Hu, Q.Y., Li, B.J., Zhang, D., Guo, H.S., Yang, G.Z., Si, F.N., Liu, J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 11.10.2009
• Subjects: Energy response; Moderator; Monte Carlo simulation; Moderator; Energy response; Monte Carlo simulation
• ISSN: 0168-9002; 1872-9576
• DOI: 10.1016/j.nima.2009.08.055

The efficiency of a neutron detector with boron trifluoride proportional tubes embedded in a polyethylene moderator was simulated with a Monte Carlo program. A moderator structure where the detector had uniform sensitivity for neutrons from 2 to 14 MeV was determined by simulation. A counter was built based on the simulation results. The counter's efficiencies were calibrated with an Am–Be source and an accelerator that served as a D–D and D–T neutron source. Experimental neutron efficiencies of these sources are approximately uniform. The simulated model was validated by the consistent results between the calculated and experimental data.