Testing the characteristics of a neutron detector array by Monte-Carlo simulations

The characteristics of the neutron detector array TONNERRE have been determined experimentally via preliminary tests with a 252Cf source and by means of simulation using a modified version of the Monte-Carlo program of Cecil et al. Of particular interest is the intrinsic detection efficiency. As it is well known, the neutron detection efficiency for one element of the detector array, depends on the threshold for the light collection (bias) expressed in energy electron equivalent. The experimental efficiencies for five neutron energies and for a bias of 80 KeV ee are presented. The efficiencies for three thresholds and neutron energies between 1-10 MeV are simulated. The neutron energy is determined by TOF over a flight path, s, and the relative energy resolution is given as a function of σs and σt (the uncertainties in the flight path), s (uniform as a function of depth) and flight time, t. The mean time resolution was 1.13 ns which gives a TOF resolution of 1.48 ns. That gives a relative energy resolution which increases slowly from 2% at En=1 MeV to 3.5% at 5 MeV. Position resolution along one module is 12 cm. To help boosting the efficiency, the elements can be arranged in two layers, but that complicates the analysis by enhancing the effects of cross-talk and out-scattering. Cross-talk is the familiar problem of one neutron creating signals in two separate detectors. In out-scattering, a neutron scatters from the non-active part of a detector and is then detected in a different detector with incorrect position and TOF. While methods exist for identifying and eliminating cross-talk events, there are no methods available for identifying out-scattered events. For the case of two layers and a bias of 80 KeV ee, simulated efficiency of two superposed elements versus neutron energy, the out-scattering probability and the probability of cross-talk are presented. The out-scattering probability comes mainly from events when neutrons scatter first on carbon nuclei in one element, without giving a detected signal and then are detected in a second element. In the experimental tests the sources exhibit a continuous spectrum. These tests are thus projected to be performed again, as part of the commissioning of the array, under beam conditions, with nuclei having a number of well established decay branches of relatively narrow width (15B, 16C and/or 17N). Similarly, it is hoped to evaluate the multi-neutron detection capability of the array during commissioning with a beam of 14Be (P2n = 5%) or 11Li (P2n = 4%). (authors)