Abstract:
A portable neutron source uses the isotope 252Cf as a source of neutrons. The isotope is mounted in a rotatable cylinder to permit the source to be ''''turned off''''. The thickness of the moderator for the neutron source can be varied to change the neutron spectrum. The neutron spectrum can also be varied by heating or cooling the moderator.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for determining boron concentration in water. The principle of neutron absorption is used with an electronic arrangement for determining the time required to count a predetermined number of nonabsorbed neutrons. The time to reach the same number of counts with no boron present is subtracted. The remaining time is found to vary directly and linearly with boron concentration.
Abstract:
A detection system and method for investigating a content of an item to be inspected, comprising an inspection space for receiving said item and a neutron generator for generating a directional beam of energetic neutrons, directed towards said inspection space. A detector is responsive to interaction products coming from said inspection space and impinging substantially along a detection axis upon interaction of said energetic particles with nuclei of material of said item. Said neutron generator is configured to expose said inspection space to a uni-directional beam of energetic neutrons along an interrogation axis through said inspection space. Said directional beam has a smaller cross section than a corresponding cross section of said inspection space and smaller than a corresponding cross section of said item to be inspected. Said detector detects said interaction products along a detection axis upon interaction of said uni-directional beam of energetic neutrons with said item to be inspected.
Abstract:
A local area, thermal cosmogenic neutron sensor is used for detecting moisture within a measurement surface. A neutron detector is positioned on a stand structure holding the detector above a measurement surface. A neutron shield is positioned around at least a portion of the neutron detector. The neutron shield substantially covers lateral sides of the neutron detector and substantially an entirety of a top of the neutron detector and is not positioned on a bottom side of the neutron detector. Local area, thermal cosmogenic neutrons propagating from the measurement surface travel through an air space before arriving at the neutron detector.