Multi-layer plastic scintillation detector for intermediate- and high-energy neutrons with $\it{n}$-$\gamma$ discrimination capability

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel multi-layer plastic scintillation detector, S$^4$, capable of discriminating between neutrons and gamma rays at high rates, validated through simulations and experiments with monoenergetic neutrons.

Contribution

The development of the S$^4$ detector with optimized layer thicknesses for effective n-γ discrimination and validated detection efficiencies.

Findings

Effective separation of neutrons and gamma rays at 5 MeVee threshold.

Detection efficiencies agree with Geant4 simulations.

Layer thickness of 5 mm is optimal for discrimination.

Abstract

A new type of neutron detector, named Stack Structure Solid organic Scintillator (S$^4$), consisting of multi-layer plastic scintillators with capability to suppress low-energy $\gamma$ rays under high-counting rate has been constructed and tested. To achieve $\it{n}$-$\gamma$ discrimination, we exploit the difference in the ranges of the secondary charged particles produced by the interactions of neutrons and $\gamma$ rays in the scintillator material. The thickness of a plastic scintillator layer was determined based on the results of Monte Carlo simulations using the Geant4 toolkit. With layer thicknesses of 5 mm, we have achieved a good separation between neutrons and $\gamma$ rays at 5 MeV$_{\rm ee}$ threshold setting. We have also determined the detection efficiencies using monoenergetic neutrons at two energies produced by the $\it{d}$+$\it{d}\to\it{n}$+$^{3}$He reaction. The results agree well with the Geant4 simulations implementing the Li$\grave{\rm e}$ge Intranuclear Cascade hadronic model (INCL++) and the high-precision model of low-energy neutron interactions (NeutronHP).