uRANIA-V: an innovative solution for neutron detection in homeland security

TL;DR

This paper presents uRANIA-V, an innovative neutron detection system using μRwell technology, designed for homeland security and radioactive waste management, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and simplified electronics.

Contribution

Introduction of μRwell-based neutron detectors as a cost-effective, easily manufacturable solution for homeland security applications, with successful test beam results and future development plans.

Findings

Successful detection of thermal neutrons using μRwell technology

Reduced electronics complexity and cost in neutron counting

Prototype tiles suitable for security portals and waste management

Abstract

Detection of neutrons is becoming of the utmost importance, especially in the studies of radioactive waste and in homeland security applications. The crisis of 3He availability has required the development of innovative techniques. One solution is to develop light gas detectors for neutron counting to be used as portals for ports and airports. The neutron is converted on the Boron-coated cathode, releasing a charged particle, whose passage can be identified by the gas detector. While several technologies have been deployed in the past, the project {\mu}RANIA-V ( {\mu}Rwell Advanced Neutron Identification Apparatus) aims to detect thermal neutrons by means of the {\mu}Rwell technology, an innovative gas detector. The goal is to produce tiles to operate as portals in homeland security or for radioactive waste management. The technological transfer towards the industry has started, thus the production can be cost-effective also owing to a construction process relatively easier compared to similar apparatus. By reading directly the signals from the amplification stage, the neutrons can be counted with simplified electronics further reducing the total cost. In this paper, the project will be described, with details on the {\mu}Rwell technology and on the neutron counting, on the test beam performed, and on the future plans.