Modelling Gd-diamond and Gd-SiC neutron detectors

• Published in: Applied radiation and isotopes 2024-10, Vol.212, p.111430, Article 111430
• Main Authors: Bodie, C.S., Barnett, A.M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 4H-SiC; Diamond; Gd conversion; Monte Carlo method; Neutron detectors; Spectroscopy
• ISSN: 0969-8043; 1872-9800; 1872-9800
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2024.111430

A custom Monte Carlo (MC) computer model was developed to simulate thermal neutron absorption in, and subsequent photon and electron emission from, natural Gd with a view to using the material as a neutron conversion layer for neutron detectors. The MC code also modelled photon and electron detection with two dissimilar detectors: a thick (500 μm) single crystal diamond detector; and a thin (5.15 μm) commercial off the shelf (COTS) 4H–SiC photodiode detector. The detectors’ quantum detection efficiencies (QE) for hard X-rays and γ-rays were relatively low in comparison to their QE for electrons, thus making it possible to collect electron spectra from the Gd layer neutron conversion products which were not overwhelmed by photon emissions from the Gd. The MC code was utilised to determine the optimal thickness of Gd for the efficient detection of a thermal neutron flux. These radiation hard and spectroscopic detectors paired with natural Gd could find utility as robust and compact thermal neutron detectors for nuclear science and engineering, space science, and other applications. •Gd-Diamond and Gd-4H–SiC thermal neutron detectors modelled.•Optimum thickness of Gd converter layer found to be ≈ 0.7 μm.•Operation also possible with commercial-off-the-shelf Gd foils.•Rejection scheme to differentiate between photons and electrons not required.