Neutron production in bombardments of thin and thick W, Hg, Pb targets by 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.8 and 2.5 GeV protons

Neutron experimental data relevant to the design of the target of neutron spallation sources are presented and discussed. The data include the reaction cross sections for W, Hg and Pb investigated with 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.8 and 2.5 GeV proton beams as well as the neutron production, neutron multiplicity distribution, as determined event per event using a high efficiency detector. The production as a function of target material is investigated for both thin (with a single reaction) and thick targets (multiple reactions). Comparisons are made with the predictions of a high energy transport code. (authors)