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Active neutron interrogation to detect shielded fissionable material

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

Portable electronic neutron generators (ENGs) may be used to interrogate suspicious items to detect, characterize, and quantify the presence of fissionable material based upon the measurement of prompt and/or delayed emissions of neutrons and/or photons resulting from fission. The small size (<0.2 m3), light weight (<12 kg), and low power consumption (<50 W) of modern ENGs makes them ideally suited for use in field situations, incorporated into systems carried by 2-3 individuals under rugged conditions. At Idaho National Laboratory we are investigating techniques and portable equipment for performing active neutron interrogation of moderate sized objects less than ∼2-4 m3 to detect shielded fissionable material. Our research in this area relies upon the use of pulsed deuterium-tritium ENGs and the measurement of die-away prompt fission neutrons and other neutron signatures in-between neutron pulses from the ENG and after the ENG is turned off.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInternational Topical Meeting on Nuclear Research Applications and Utilization of Accelerators
StatePublished - 2009
EventIAEA International Topical Meeting on Nuclear Research Applications and Utilization of Accelerators - Vienna, Austria
Duration: May 4 2009May 8 2009

Publication series

NameInternational Topical Meeting on Nuclear Research Applications and Utilization of Accelerators

Conference

ConferenceIAEA International Topical Meeting on Nuclear Research Applications and Utilization of Accelerators
Country/TerritoryAustria
CityVienna
Period05/4/0905/8/09

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