In the framework of the research and development activity on He-free neutron detection systems, the solid state physics experimental techniques and characterization tools can provide a valuable contribution for detector assessment and performance improvement. Presently, a He-replacement strategy relies on the use of Li-and/or B-based neutron to charge particle converters coupled to particle detectors (solid state, gaseous, scintillators). In particular, in this paper the detailed structural and chemical-physical characterization of B-10-enriched films deposited by e-beam evaporation onto alumina substrates is reported. X-ray diffraction and photoelectron spectroscopy investigations have revealed that high B content (about 78%) can be achieved on these films, contaminants being mainly C and O most likely coming from the B targets. Microstructural investigation carried out by AFM, SEM and nanoindentation techniques have mainly revealed that B films replicated the alumina substrate microstructural features. The described B-10/Al2O3 samples were successfully tested in a Gas Electron Multiplier based neutron detector with measured detection efficiency in full agreement with the expectations. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Celentano, G., Vannozzi, A., Mancini, A., Santoni, A., Pietropaolo, A., Claps, G., et al. (2015). 10B enriched film deposited by e-beam technique on Al2O3 substrates for high efficiency thermal neutron detector. SURFACE & COATINGS TECHNOLOGY, 265, 160-165 [10.1016/j.surfcoat.2015.01.041].
10B enriched film deposited by e-beam technique on Al2O3 substrates for high efficiency thermal neutron detector
BEMPORAD, Edoardo;RENZELLI, MARCO;
2015-01-01
Abstract
In the framework of the research and development activity on He-free neutron detection systems, the solid state physics experimental techniques and characterization tools can provide a valuable contribution for detector assessment and performance improvement. Presently, a He-replacement strategy relies on the use of Li-and/or B-based neutron to charge particle converters coupled to particle detectors (solid state, gaseous, scintillators). In particular, in this paper the detailed structural and chemical-physical characterization of B-10-enriched films deposited by e-beam evaporation onto alumina substrates is reported. X-ray diffraction and photoelectron spectroscopy investigations have revealed that high B content (about 78%) can be achieved on these films, contaminants being mainly C and O most likely coming from the B targets. Microstructural investigation carried out by AFM, SEM and nanoindentation techniques have mainly revealed that B films replicated the alumina substrate microstructural features. The described B-10/Al2O3 samples were successfully tested in a Gas Electron Multiplier based neutron detector with measured detection efficiency in full agreement with the expectations. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
