Negative-Ion Beam Generator Architecture for Safer Neutron Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neutron and proton generation systems are costly, inefficient, and pose safety concerns due to complex and hazardous materials, limiting their commercial-scale application in fields like semiconductor manufacturing and medical imaging.
Innovation Solution
Development of high energy ion beam generator systems that utilize inverted impedance matching components, automated control systems, and advanced target technologies to achieve low-cost, high-performance, and reliable neutron and proton generation with reduced gas and fuel consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional particle accelerators and neutron generators are used, then neutron and proton generation is achieved, but the systems become costly, complex, and hazardous
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the ion beam generation process into separate functional modules: ion source, acceleration section, and target chamber. Each module operates independently with optimized parameters, allowing the complex neutron generation process to be managed through modular components rather than a monolithic system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a charge exchange section as an intermediary between the negative ion source and the target. This section converts negative ions to positive ions through charge exchange with neutral gas, enabling the use of negative ion sources (which are more efficient) while avoiding the complexity of directly accelerating negative ions to the target
2Productivity
If traditional neutron generators using DT reactions are used, then high neutron yield is achieved, but safety concerns arise due to tritium content
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the typically harmful effect of space charge repulsion (which limits beam current) into a benefit by using negative ions. Negative ions are produced with inherent space charge neutralization from the plasma, allowing higher beam currents and neutron yields without the safety hazards of tritium
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the ion charge state parameter from positive to negative throughout the acceleration process. This parameter change fundamentally alters the space charge dynamics, enabling higher current operation without the radiological hazards associated with traditional DT generators
3Productivity
If higher beam current is used to increase neutron output, then productivity improves, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The negative ion source provides self-neutralization of space charge through the plasma environment. The plasma automatically supplies electrons that neutralize the space charge of the ion beam, eliminating the need for external neutralization systems and enabling high current operation with simpler, lower-cost equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical acceleration and focusing systems with electric field-based acceleration of negative ions. The electric fields in the acceleration section naturally focus and control the beam without requiring complex mechanical components, reducing system cost and complexity while enabling higher currents
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 systems provide consistent, uniform, and efficient neutron and proton generation, enhancing throughput and reliability for commercial processes while minimizing environmental impact and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
an ion source plasma chamber
Implementation Method 2
an accelerator that accelerates the ions to a desired energy level
Implementation Method 3
produce neutrons by fusing isotopes of hydrogen
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are high energy ion beam generator systems and methods that provide low cost, high performance, robust, consistent, uniform, low gas consumption and high current/high-moderate voltage generation of neutrons and protons. Such systems and methods find use for the commercial-scale generation of neutrons and protons for a wide variety of research, medical, security, and industrial processes.