SPACE EXPLORATION ASSOC.
P.O. Box 579
Cedarville, OH 45314

Phone:
PI:
Topic#:

(513) 766-2050
Elliot B. Kennel
BMDO 96-003

Title: Solid State Neutron Detector

Abstract: Phase I proposes to demonstrate an easy-to-operate, inexpensive room temperature neutron detector based on boron-doped diamond. The detector would produce an immediate signal related to low-level neutron irradiation. The concept exploits the high neutron absorption cross section of B-10, which results in excellent sensitivity. The charge carriers generated in the diamond by a neutron absorption event are easily detected by a biased pair of very low-current electrodes, permitting an extremely simple detector. Phase I, will demonstrate this by manufacturing a small detector and demonstrating its effectiveness using a small neutron source.