Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC

Daniel Heineck

Lars F Voss

Adam M Conway

Rebecca J Nikolic

Joshua D Kuntz

Qinghui Shao

Robert T Graff

Chin Li Cheung

Catherine E Reinhardt

Tzu Fang Wang

Three-dimensional boron particle loaded thermal neutron detectors utilize neutron sensitive conversion materials in the form of nano-powders and micro-sized particles, as opposed to thin films, suspensions, paraffin, etc. More specifically, methods to infiltrate, intersperse and embed the neutron nano-powders to form two-dimensional and/or three-dimensional charge sensitive platforms are specified. The use of nano-powders enables conformal contact with the entire charge-collecting structure regardless of its shape or configuration.

Three-dimensional boron particle loaded thermal neutron detector

Methods for manufacturing solid-state thermal neutron detectors with simultaneous high thermal neutron detection efficiency (&#x3e;50%) and neutron to gamma discrimination (&#x3e;10) are provided. A structure is provided that includes a p+ region on a first side of an intrinsic region and an n+ region on a second side of the intrinsic region. The thickness of the intrinsic region is minimized to achieve a desired gamma discrimination factor of at least 1.0E+04. Material is removed from one of the p+ region or the n+ region and into the intrinsic layer to produce pillars with open space between each pillar. The open space is filed with a neutron sensitive material. An electrode is placed in contact with the pillars and another electrode is placed in contact with the side that is opposite of the intrinsic layer with respect to the first electrode.

Method for manufacturing solid-state thermal neutron detectors with simultaneous high thermal neutron detection efficiency (&#x3e;50%) and neutron to gamma discrimination (&#x3e;1.0E4)

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Daniel Heineck