Status of a point-like neutron generator development

TL;DR

This paper discusses the development of a high current density ion beam diagnostics system for a point-like neutron generator, aiming to improve neutron radiography and imaging capabilities.

Contribution

It introduces a reliable slit-based diagnostics method for high thermal load applications in a high current gasdynamic ion source for neutron generation.

Findings

Demonstrated focused D+ beams with 1 mm diameter and over 100 mA current

Achieved current density levels of several A/cm^2

Showed potential for fast neutron imaging with a neutron yield of 10^10 1/s

Abstract

In this paper we report on a high current density ion beam profile diagnostics with a slit-based system as a reliable method, capable of high thermal load applications. The task arose in frames of a point-like neutron source development for neutron radiography. In previous research, it was suggested to construct such a system as a D-D neutron generator based on the high current gasdynamic ion source, which utilises the plasma of electron cyclotron resonance discharge sustained by powerful millimeter wave gyrotron radiation. This device is able to produce focused D+ beams with a characteristic diameter of 1 mm, total current above 100 mA, and current density at a level of several A/cm^2. Study of such intense beams profile to obtain the best focusing efficiency and minimize neutron producing area appeared to be a challenging task. The paper also demonstrates the possibility of fast neutron imaging with a point-like powerful neutron generator (neutron yield on the level of 10^10 1/s).