Characterization of 3D micro-structured TIMEPIX detectors for neutron imaging

Abstract

Neutron imaging provides additional information to X-ray imaging and can be used in many applications, for example, nuclear engineering, non-industrial diagnostics and homeland security. This paper presents the latest development results of a new 3D structured pixel detector for thermal neutron detection and imaging. The device is based on Medipix/Timepix read-out chip family. The detector, without converter materials, was initially tested in the laboratory with a 241Am source, to simulate events that are induced by reaction products of active material in the silicon bulk. Thanks to the analysis of the size of event clusters and deposited energy, α particles and noise signals were discriminated. The detector was also tested with β and γ sources, to study the effect of other radiation on the device. These results can be useful as a starting point for future experiments, where a neutron source will be used, after filling the cavities with active materials, such as 6Li or 10B. In this paper, the results of the characterization and a comparison between experimental data and Monte Carlo simulations are shown.