Plasma Driven Neutron Gamma Generator Using RF Induction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neutron and gamma-ray generation systems are limited by their size, complexity, high cost, and high background noise, which restricts their efficiency and portability for active interrogation systems, particularly for detecting special nuclear material.
Innovation Solution
A modified plasma ion immersion type apparatus that generates neutrons and gamma rays using RF induction discharge, where the ion source plasma is formed before applying a negative voltage to a target electrode, eliminating the need for an electrostatic acceleration column and using permanent magnets to suppress secondary electrons, resulting in a compact, efficient, and cost-effective system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If electron linacs or microtrons are used to generate gamma beams, then gamma ray production is achieved, but the system size becomes large and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical electrostatic acceleration column with an electromagnetic plasma-based acceleration mechanism. The plasma is generated by RF induction discharge, and ions are accelerated through the plasma medium itself rather than through a long electrostatic column with multiple electrodes. This substitution dramatically reduces system size and complexity while maintaining gamma ray production capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The plasma chamber serves multiple functions simultaneously: it generates the ion source, provides the acceleration medium, and acts as the reaction chamber for neutron/gamma production. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components (ion source, acceleration column, target chamber) that would otherwise be required in conventional systems.
2Power
If an electrostatic acceleration column is used to accelerate ion beamlets, then the desired beam energy is achieved, but the column length becomes relatively long and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical electrostatic acceleration column with an electromagnetic plasma-based acceleration mechanism. The plasma is generated by RF induction discharge, and ions are accelerated through the plasma medium itself rather than through a long electrostatic column with multiple electrodes. This substitution dramatically reduces system size and complexity while maintaining gamma ray production capability.
3Productivity
If external pumping is used to maintain low pressure in the acceleration column, then beam loss is minimized, but device complexity and operational cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The plasma chamber operates at a pressure that allows the plasma to be self-sustaining through RF induction discharge. The system uses the natural properties of plasma to maintain the acceleration medium without requiring complex external vacuum pumping systems. The plasma itself serves to maintain the necessary conditions for ion acceleration.
4Reliability
If protection schemes are added to prevent backstreaming electrons from damaging the ion source, then component damage is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful backstreaming electrons into a beneficial component of the plasma. Instead of trying to block or prevent electron flow back toward the ion source, the system allows electrons to return and become part of the plasma population. These electrons are then re-ionized and participate in the acceleration process, turning a potential damage mechanism into a useful plasma generation mechanism.
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 system achieves high particle production efficiency, reduced size, and lower operational costs, enabling efficient generation of neutrons and gamma rays with minimal background noise, suitable for portable active interrogation systems.
Implementation Method 1
the ion source plasma is generated by RF induction discharge
Implementation Method 2
a dense ion plasma is produced by RF induction discharge
Implementation Method 3
a negative voltage of 80 to 180 kV is applied to the target such that the ions from the plasma reach the target with theses energies
Implementation Method 4
the suppression of electrons at the target by use of appropriately placed permanent magnets to confine the electrons produced as a result of collisions of ions from the plasma with the target materials
Implementation Method 5
the creation of x-rays is prevented and less power consumed to generate a beam of a given gamma or neutron density
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for the generation of neutron/gamma rays is described including a chamber which defines an ion source, said apparatus including an RF antenna positioned outside of or within the chamber. Positioned within the chamber is a target material. One or more sets of confining magnets are also provided to create a cross B magnetic field directly above the target. To generate neutrons/gamma rays, the appropriate source gas is first introduced into the chamber, the RF antenna energized and a plasma formed. A series of high voltage pulses are then applied to the target. A plasma sheath, which serves as an accelerating gap, is formed upon application of the high voltage pulse to the target. Depending upon the selected combination of source gas and target material, either neutrons or gamma rays are generated, which may be used for cargo inspection, and the like.