Thermal Neutron Measurements with an Unpowered, Miniature, Solid-State Device

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a novel, miniature solid-state neutron detector prototype using modified flash memory devices, tested with a thermal neutron beam to measure beam dimensions.

Contribution

It introduces a new approach to neutron detection by repurposing commercial flash memory devices into a prototype detector.

Findings

Successful demonstration with a TRIGA reactor beam

Measured beam dimensions at half maximum are 2.2x2.1 cm²

Prototype shows potential for compact neutron detection

Abstract

A prototype neutron detector has been created through modification to a commercial non-volatile flash memory device. Studies are being performed to modify this prototype into a purpose-built device with greater performance and functionality. This paper describes a demonstration of this technology using a thermal neutron beam produced by a TRIGA research reactor. With a 4x4 array of 16 prototype devices, the full widths of the beam dimensions at half maximum are measured to be 2.2x2.1 cm2.