Characterization of boron coated vitreous carbon foam for neutron detection

Reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) foams coated with 3−11μm thick layers of boron carbide (B4C) are experimentally characterized for use as an active material for neutron detection. The potential advantage of this material over thin films is that it can be fabricated in any shape and its porous structure may enhance the emission surface area for ionizing charged particles following thermal neutron capture. A coated foam is also advantageous because the neutron-absorbing material is only on the surface, which is more efficient for α particle emission on a per captured neutron basis. Measurements of the B4C layer thickness of an RVC coated foam, and determination of its elemental composition, are performed using scanning electron microscopy. Neutron transmission measurements using neutron radiography are presented and α particle emission from the coated foam in response to a moderated 252Cf thermal neutron source is demonstrated. -- Highlights: •Reticulated Vitreous Carbon (RVC) foam coated with a few μm thick layer of boron carbide (B4C) is experimentally characterized for neutron detection. •The microporous network of the foam geometry is described. •The coating is evaluated using SEM and neutron radiography. •Alpha-particle emission from the coating is observed in response to an external thermal neutron source. •Detector designs are discussed, with particular focus on noble gas excimer based far ultra violet (FUV) techniques