NESSA: a compact 14 MeV D-T neutron source facility at Uppsala University

TL;DR

The paper introduces the NESSA facility at Uppsala University, a compact 14 MeV neutron source with detailed descriptions of its components, calibration, and initial measurements for various applications.

Contribution

It presents the design, commissioning, and initial characterization of a novel compact neutron source facility for research and educational purposes.

Findings

Maximum neutron yield of 4.7×10^8 n/s

Calibration with Nb activation foils and fission chambers conducted

Initial activation and SEE tests performed

Abstract

The NESSA (Neutron Source in Uppsala) facility hosts a compact 14 MeV deuterium-tritium sealed tube neutron generator at the {\AA}ngstr\"om Laboratory, Uppsala University. The generator, housed in a bunker inside the FREIA hall, reaches a maximum yield of $4.7\times10^{8}$ n/s. This paper describes the facility: the generator, the bunker and its shielding, the detector systems, and the Monte Carlo models used to characterize the neutron field. We also report the first commissioning measurements: yield calibration with $^{93}$Nb activation foils, fission chamber response at two positions, and simulated air and structural activation. Initial indium foil activations and single event effect (SEE) tests on silicon devices are also presented. The facility will be used for nuclear data measurements, neutron detector response studies, moderation and thermalization experiments, irradiation testing of electronics as well as for training and education.