Fast-neutron/gamma-ray radiography using a broad-energy neutron source

Nattress, Jason T.; Hausladen, Paul A.; Rose, Jr., Paul B.

doi:10.1016/j.nima.2022.167701

Fast-neutron/gamma-ray radiography using a broad-energy neutron source

Journal Article · Tue Nov 08 00:00:00 EST 2022 · Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research. Section A, Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nima.2022.167701· OSTI ID:1901663

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Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)

Transmission radiography is a well-established nondestructive examination technique with widespread application to fields ranging from medicine to security. Traditionally, inspection is performed using a single particle type (such as x-rays). However, the information available using a single probe for traditional radiography is limited. The present work evaluates material discrimination via transmission radiography using the attenuation ratio of monoenergetic gamma rays to a broad spectrum of fast neutrons. Here, the method was assessed using an ²⁴¹Am/Be radioisotope source that provides both 4.4 MeV gamma rays and a spectrum of fast neutrons up to 12 MeV. A total of 14 object configurations were measured: seven different materials each with two thicknesses (2.5 cm and 5 cm). The ability to distinguish materials was evaluated and shows more significant variation among atomic numbers than for high-energy x-rays alone, making it easier to distinguish between classes such as low-, mid-, and high-Z materials. These results suggest that superior material discrimination is also possible using a combination of monoenergetic gamma rays and broad-spectrum fast neutrons from a variety of nuclear reactions, such as ¹¹B(d,nγ)¹²C, that could be implemented in future inspection systems.

View Accepted Manuscript (DOE)

Research Organization:: Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)

Sponsoring Organization:: USDOE

Grant/Contract Number:: AC05-00OR22725

OSTI ID:: 1901663

Journal Information:: Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research. Section A, Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment, Journal Name: Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research. Section A, Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 1047; ISSN 0168-9002

Publisher:: ElsevierCopyright Statement

Country of Publication:: United States

Language:: English

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Fast-neutron/gamma-ray radiography using a broad-energy neutron source

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