Moldable Neutron Detector Solid Scintillator Composite
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neutron radiation detectors, such as gas proportional counters and liquid scintillators, are large, costly, and limited in portability due to their gaseous composition and low density, which hinders their effectiveness as portable, sensitive devices for detecting fissile materials and neutron radiation.
Innovation Solution
A moldable, solid-based neutron radiation detector comprising an intimate mixture of an inorganic scintillating component with high thermal neutron absorption and a gamma ray-insensitive, transmissive resin, allowing for the creation of compact, high-sensitivity neutron detection devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If gas proportional counters or liquid scintillators are used for neutron detection, then neutron detection capability is achieved, but device size and cost increase while portability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the detector from gaseous or liquid to solid form, fundamentally altering the medium in which neutron detection occurs. This parameter change enables miniaturization while maintaining detection capability, as solids can be densely packed and molded into compact shapes unlike gases or liquids
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a composite material system consisting of a solid scintillator matrix combined with a neutron-capturing agent. This composite structure allows the detector to achieve both compact size and effective neutron detection by combining the advantages of different materials in a single solid detector body
2Reliability
If gas proportional counters are used, then neutron detection is possible, but portability and ease of deployment are reduced due to large size and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Transforming the detector from gaseous to solid state fundamentally improves portability. The solid form eliminates the need for complex gas handling systems, pressure containment, and gas flow control mechanisms required by proportional counters, making the device much easier to deploy and operate in field conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the complex gas handling infrastructure from the detector design. By using a solid scintillator material, the patent removes the need for gas supply systems, pressure regulation devices, and gas circulation mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall device and improving portability
3Reliability
If conventional neutron detectors are used, then detection function is provided, but manufacturing cost and total cost of ownership increase
Solution Approach 1:
The solid scintillator detector uses inexpensive, readily available materials that can be easily manufactured and replaced. The solid form allows for simpler manufacturing processes compared to gas or liquid systems, reducing both initial manufacturing costs and long-term operational expenses including maintenance and replacement
4Volume of moving object
If solid-based detectors are developed, then portability is improved, but achieving high neutron sensitivity and low gamma sensitivity becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite material approach where a solid scintillator matrix is combined with a neutron-capturing agent. This composite structure enables the detector to achieve high neutron sensitivity through the neutron-capturing component while the scintillator matrix provides gamma ray insensitivity and maintains a compact form factor
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies local quality by creating distinct functional zones within the solid detector. The neutron-capturing agent is positioned to intercept thermal neutrons, while the scintillator material is configured to detect the resulting particles. This spatial differentiation of functions within the solid matrix enables simultaneous optimization for neutron sensitivity and gamma insensitivity
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 portable, high-sensitivity neutron detector with low gamma sensitivity and small volume, enhancing detection efficiency and reducing manufacturing and ownership costs, while adhering to regulatory standards for portability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an inorganic scintillating component... which when struck by charged particles or nuclear fragments produced during neutron capture, emits light
Implementation Method 2
a neutron capture component comprising a nuclide having a thermal neutron absorption capture cross-section of at least about 100 barns
Data Source
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AI summary
Moldable neutron sensitive compositions containing an inorganic scintillating component, and neutron capture component, and a moldable resin component, are described. They are prepared with optimized compositions for maximized thermal neutron sensitivity. Methods for preparing such compositions, and articles and radiation detectors made from them are described as well.