Optimization of 6LiF:ZnS(Ag) Scintillator Light Yield using GEANT4

Published

June 1, 2018

Author(s)

Y. Yehuda-Zada, Kevin N. Pritchard, Jeffrey B. Ziegler, P. Yvonne Barnes, Kerry Siebein, M. Jackson, C. Hurlbut, Y. Kadmon, Y. Cohen, R. M. Ibberson, Charles Majkrzak, Nicholas C. Maliszewskyj, I. Orion, A. Osovizky

Abstract

A new cold neutron detector has been developed at the NCNR for the CANDoR project. Geometric and performance constraints dictate that this detector be exceptionally thin (2nm). For this reason, the design of the detector consists of ⁶LiF:ZnS(Ag) scinitallator with embedded wavelength shifting (WLS) fiber. We used the GEANT4 package to simulate neutron capture and light transport in the detector optimizations between the competing requirements of high neutron capture probability and light production and transport. In the process, we have developed a method for predicting light collection and total neuron detection efficiency for different detector configurations. The simulation was performed by adjusting crucial parameters such as the scintillator stoichiometry, light yield, component grain size, WLS fiber geometry, and reflectors at the outside edges of the scintillator volume. Three different detector configurations were fabricated and their test results were correlated with the simulations. Through this correlation we have managed to find a common photon threshold for the different detector configurations which was then used to simulate and predict the efficiencies for many other detector configurations. New detectors fabricated based on simulation results yield the desired sensitivity of 90% for 3.27 meV cold neutrons. The simulation has proven to be useful tool by dramatically reducing the development period and the required number of detector prototypes. It can be used to test new designs with different thicknesses and different target neutron energies.

Citation

Nuclear Instruments & Methods in Physics Research A

Volume

892

Pub Type

Journals

Download Paper

Local Download

Keywords

GEANT4, scintillator, neutron scattering, neutron detection

Citation

Yehuda-Zada, Y. , Pritchard, K. , Ziegler, J. , Barnes, P. , Siebein, K. , Jackson, M. , Hurlbut, C. , Kadmon, Y. , Cohen, Y. , Ibberson, R. , Majkrzak, C. , Maliszewskyj, N. , Orion, I. and Osovizky, A. (2018), Optimization of ⁶LiF:ZnS(Ag) Scintillator Light Yield using GEANT4, Nuclear Instruments & Methods in Physics Research A, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=923777 (Accessed October 1, 2025)