Neutron Detection Using CNT-BNNT Resistive Detectors

Abstract

This paper was presented at the 39th Annual HEART Conference Huntsville, AL, April 15–19, 2024.A Micro-Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS)-based resistive sensor combining boron-nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with an interdigitated electrode design, printed with conducting ink, can be used to detect thermal neutron radia tion. However, the sensitivities of these detectors have been shown to vary with the value of initial resistance. This work explores the reasons why the initial resistance of a BNNT and MWCNT mixture, forming percolative conductive paths between printed electrodes, influ ences the percent change in resistance of the sensor following thermal neutron exposure.In addition to explaining the reason for this dependence, the experiments conducted in this work attempt to determine an ideal initial resistance that produces the most sensitive neutron detector within an appropriate dynamic range