The conceptual design and operational principle of a novel high-efficiency,
fast neutron imaging detector based on THGEM, intended for future fan-beam
transmission tomography applications, is described. We report on a feasibility
study based on theoretical modeling and computer simulations of a possible
detector configuration prototype. In particular we discuss results regarding
the optimization of detector geometry, estimation of its general performance,
and expected imaging quality: it has been estimated that detection efficiency
of around 5-8% can be achieved for 2.5MeV neutrons; spatial resolution is
around one millimeter with no substantial degradation due to scattering
effects. The foreseen applications of the imaging system are neutron tomography
in non-destructive testing for the nuclear energy industry, including
examination of spent nuclear fuel bundles, detection of explosives or drugs, as
well as investigation of thermal hydraulics phenomena (e.g., two-phase flow,
heat transfer, phase change, coolant dynamics, and liquid metal flow).Comment: 11 Pages; 6 Figures; Proceeding of the International Workshop on Fast
Neutron Detectors and Application FNDA2011, Ein Gedi, Israel, November 2011.
Published on the Journal of Instrumentation; 2012 JINST 7 C0205