Year
2011
Abstract
A new 10B lined proportional counter geometry is evaluated as an alternative to 3He for nuclear material measurements. The widely documented global shortage of 3He gas now presents a serious challenge in the provision of sensitive neutron measurement systems required both by plant operators and by regulatory/inspection bodies. 10B lined detectors having a sensitivity of over 70% of a 3atm 3He detector have emerged as the leading 3He replacement technology for the homeland security sector and within this category monolithic assemblies of small tubelets have been identified as offering the highest performance and technology readiness level. In this paper we present additional original performance measurements including preliminary energy response characteristics compared to 3He tubes in order to evaluate the applicability of this geometry for the requirements of waste assay and materials control applications.