Fusion Neutron Generator Using Regenerable Target
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radioactive neutron sources used in industries are hampered by high costs, large size, low efficiency, and short lifetimes, posing safety concerns and limiting their application in various industrial and academic settings.
Innovation Solution
A compact, high-efficiency fusion neutron generator with a regenerable low-Z target and RF ion source, which allows for improved thermal management and increased yield, reducing costs and size, and enabling the use of non-radioactive neutron sources in diverse applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If radioactive isotopes are used as neutron sources, then neutron generation is continuous and reliable, but safety hazards and security concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces radioactive isotopes (nuclear process) with a fusion neutron generator that uses accelerators and plasma physics to generate neutrons through deuterium-deuterium fusion reactions, eliminating radioactive material handling while maintaining continuous neutron production capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the fundamental mechanism from radioactive decay to controlled fusion reactions, adjusting parameters such as plasma density, ion energy (50-100 keV), and deuterium gas pressure to achieve continuous neutron generation without radioactive hazards
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional accelerator neutron sources are used, then radioactive material hazards are eliminated, but system size and power consumption become large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the accelerator system into compact modular components including a small plasma source chamber, deuterium injection system, and neutron detection assembly, reducing the overall footprint while maintaining accelerator functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a simplified accelerator design that replicates the essential neutron generation function of large accelerators at a smaller scale, achieving comparable neutron output through optimized plasma conditions and deuterium fuel cycles
3Object-affected harmful factors
If accelerator neutron sources are used, then radioactive material is eliminated, but cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs consumable deuterium gas as fuel, which is inexpensive and readily available, replacing expensive and hazardous radioactive isotopes. The deuterium can be continuously supplied from external sources without requiring costly radioactive material replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The fusion neutron generator is designed to serve multiple applications including industrial analysis, security screening, and research, making the investment in accelerator technology justified by its versatile utility across different fields
4Productivity
If target material degrades in accelerator sources, then neutron generation continues, but lifetime is limited and replacement costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously supplies fresh deuterium gas to replace consumed deuterium in the plasma, maintaining optimal fusion conditions without requiring replacement of the fuel source. The deuterium is replenished from external reservoirs, ensuring uninterrupted neutron generation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a closed-loop system with continuous deuterium injection and plasma maintenance, ensuring uninterrupted neutron generation. The accelerator operates continuously as long as deuterium supply and power are available, eliminating the lifetime limitations of solid target materials
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a safer, more cost-effective, and efficient neutron source that can replace traditional radioactive sources, enhancing analysis capabilities and broadening their application in industries such as coal and cement mining, geoscience, and security screening.
Implementation Method 1
a plasma is generated to provide ions that are extracted out of the source region and accelerated
Implementation Method 2
ions that are extracted out of the source region and accelerated to ̃100 keV
Implementation Method 3
these ions bombard the target 2 where they can undergo fusion reactions with other hydrogen isotopes embedded in the target 2
Implementation Method 4
DD fusion reactions generate 2.45 MeV neutrons
Implementation Method 5
a high-voltage generator 1 ( ̃100 kV)... ions that are extracted out of the source region and accelerated to ̃100 keV
Implementation Method 6
improved thermal management
Data Source
AI summary
The design of a compact, high-efficiency, high-flux capable compact-accelerator fusion neutron generator (FNG) is discussed. FNG's can be used in a variety of industrial analysis applications to replace the use of radioisotopes which pose higher risks to both the end user and national security. High efficiency, long lifetime, and high power-handling capability are achieved though innovative target materials and ion source technology. The device can be sealed up for neutron radiography applications, or down for borehole analysis or other compact applications. Advanced technologies such as custom neutron output energy spectrum, pulsing, and associated particle imaging can be incorporated.