Optimising the design of a neutron and gamma-ray detector

We are developing a Neutron and Gamma-ray spectrometer for deploying it on the Moon and Mars, in orbit or on a lander, to find water and other volatiles of interest for in-situ resource utilization (ISRU).

Neutron and Gamma-ray spectroscopy is a powerful tool in geophysics, and planetary science as it is the only technique that provides bulk chemical composition and elemental abundance at depth, at a range of spatial scales, which – for planetary bodies – can provide lithology, mineralogy and chemistry. Importantly, such an instrument package can identify and quantify water and other key elements relevant to assessing planetary volatile abundances and evolution, assessing radioactivity and habitability to advance sustainable human exploration.

Objectives:

This project aims to determine the most efficient scintillator option for the ROSSPADs, including 6Li/CLLBc and others. Additionally, it seeks to identify the optimal scintillator geometry, considering options such as single-layer, multi-layer, rectangle, cylindrical, cube, and more.

 

Key Tasks:

Perform modelling and geometry optimisation using Geant4 to assess:

  • Light collection efficiency
  • Neutron detection efficiency
  • Gamma-ray detection efficiency

Note: Environmental factors, source(s) properties, and flux data will be provided by MSc Project #2, focused on environmental modelling and Analysis.

By refining the scintillator selection and geometry, this project aims to enhance the performance of the CLUGAS Compact Gamma-ray and Neutron Counter, contributing to more accurate radiation detection and measurement.

Emneord: romsystemer, Neutron and gamma-ray detection technologies
Publisert 24. okt. 2023 10:38 - Sist endret 24. okt. 2023 11:03

Veileder(e)

Omfang (studiepoeng)

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