Module for thermal neutrons registration based on uncooled silicon detectors and metal gadolinium converter

Abstract

Compact design of the single-channel thermal neutron detection module based on planar silicon detector (PSD) and the metal gadolinium converter developed. PSD of 300 microns thick with a working area of 22 and 55 mm arranged in a module housing in a special holder perpendicular to the base that allows access of the radiation from all detector sides. In order to improve the performance stability the module designed sealed, and the sealing process is carried out in a controlled atmosphere with a reduced content of water vapor. Test registration of electrons and low energy radiation was conducted that provides a measure of the conversion electrons and characteristic X-rays from the reaction of Gd(n, γ + e-)Gd. Background measurements were conducted by two modules samples with the size of the working area of 22 and 55 mm. Detection modules have a low noise level (about 100 counts per day).