Two-dimension, high spatial resolution detector of thermal and subthermal neutrons based on ccd and cmos electronics sensors, and converter containning gadolinium

Abstract

A detector of thermal and subthermal neutrons with high spatial resolution in two dimensions, based on an electronic image forming sensor (for example a CCD or CMOS device). The detector possesses as small size, low consumption, is portable and of very low cost. The detector does not utilize the scarce and expensive 3He isotope, and be mass-produced. It can be used for defense, security, and control posts in borders and traffic, detecting the presence of fissile materials, such as plutonium or uranium; in dosimetry in radiotherapy treatments based on the use of neutrons; and in various techniques which employ neutron beams for numerous basic and applied studies, among other applications. It also has environmental applications, controlling contamination by materials that emit thermal neutrons, inspection of materials by neutron radiography (imaging using neutrons) and in general in physics and engineering of reactors and nuclear physics and engineering.