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Ion sources for sealed neutron tubes

Conference ·
OSTI ID:414412
 [1];  [2]
  1. Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States). Neutron Tube Dept.
  2. Lockheed Martin Specialty Components, Largo, FL (United States)

Fast and thermal neutron activation analysis with sealed neutron generators has been used to detect oil (oil logging), hazardous waste, fissile material, explosives, and contraband (drugs). Sealed neutron generators, used in the above applications, must be small and portable, have good electrical efficiency and long life. The ion sources used in the sealed neutron tubes require high gas utilization efficiencies or low pressure operation with high ionization efficiencies. In this paper, the authors compare a number of gas ion sources that can be used in sealed neutron tubes. The characteristics of the most popular ion source, the axial Penning discharge will be discussed as part of the zetatron neutron generator. Other sources to be discussed include the SAMIS source and RF ion source.

Research Organization:
Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC04-94AL85000
OSTI ID:
414412
Report Number(s):
SAND--96-2784C; CONF-9609289--1; ON: DE97001320
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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