A novel method for designing the moderator of accelerator-driven neutron source. (November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hu, Guang; Ren, Yanyan; Cui, Rongrong; Chu, Qianqian
• Is Part Of: Annals of nuclear energy. Volume 133(2019)
• Page Start: 96
• Page End: 99
• Publication Date: 2019-11
• Subjects: Moderator design -- Neutron source -- Desired energy -- Component -- Multi-layer structure; Nuclear energy -- Periodicals; Nuclear engineering -- Periodicals; 621.4805
• DOI: 10.1016/j.anucene.2019.04.056
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-4549

Abstract

Highlights: A novel method for gaining the desired neutrons was establishment. The component and structure of the moderator in the CANS were designed. The complex structure and multi component of the material can be designed, which saves time and improve accuracy. Abstract: Initial neutrons are produced by accelerator-driven neuron sources, and in order to gain various energy ranges to realize all kinds of applications of the neutrons, specially designed neutron sources are required. Therefore, in this research, a method for designing neutron sources with wanted energy ranges is developed. Through a special design of the structure and components of the materials of the neutron source, it is able to gain the intended neutrons. In the investigation, the method is first applied to an initial neutron source for gaining 0.025 eV to 1.0 eV neutrons, and the initial neutrons are produced by proton bombing the beryllium (Be) target, which is simulated by GEANT4. In the simulation, the thickness of moderator materials including polythene (PE), H2 O, and CH4 is carefully designed for the neutron source, and since the multilayer and composite material has the potential of improving the neutrons, the structure and components of two models for complex materials are also devised accordingly. Finally, this method is applied to a compact neutron source (CANS) for gaining thermal neutrons.