Design Process and Build of an Automated Neutron Spectrometer Concept

Abstract

The objective of this project is to design an Automated Neutron Spectrometer (ANS) using the engineering design process. This would allow a neutron field to be characterized without requiring human interaction in the field. Current neutron spectrometers do not offer ease of use and require human interaction, which decreases the overall safety of operating personnel. The ANS design consists of nested concentric cylinders that can be pumped full of a water, allowing the thickness of moderator to be changed remotely. This will allow neutrons of varying energies to be attenuated to a detectable level. A prototype will be built and tested with a 2.5 MeV neutron generator and MCNP models will be used to validate experimental results and acquire data for other neutron energies.