Experimental research on a THGEM-based thermal neutron detector

A new thermal neutron detector with a domestically produced THGEM (Thick Gas Electron Multiplier) was developed as an alternative to ³He to meet the needs of the next generation of neutron facilities. One type of Au-coated THGEM was designed specifically for neutron detection. A detector prototype has been developed and the preliminary experimental tests are presented, including the performance of the Au-coated THGEM working in Ar/CO₂ gas mixtures and the neutron imaging test with ²⁵²Cf source, which can provide the reference for experimental data for research in the future. (authors)