Photonis introduces Neutronic [i] System for Neutron Imaging

Provides superior resolution with 100x100mm2 MCP

November 1, 2017 Sturbridge, MA - Photonis introduces Neutronic [i], a neutron imaging system that provides both high resolution and high detection efficiency when compared to traditional scintillator-based neutron imaging systems. The Photonis Neutronic [i] supports both still and video images using either cold or thermal neutron imaging techniques, making it ideal for physics research, neutron scattering, neutron tomography and non-destructive testing applications.
 
Neutronic [i] is a complete imaging system, equipped with a 100mm x 100mm MCP from Photonis and with NeuViewTM technology applied from Nova Scientific for neutron sensitivity. The system also houses a vacuum chamber, high-voltage power supply and controller. The Neutronic [i] can provide actionable images in under two hours, a significant improvement over existing systems that require multiple hours to capture and process images.
 
“The Photonis Neutronic [i] system offers large format images to provide fast, high-resolution results for tomography – in about 60 to 90 minutes”, said Bruce N. Laprade, Vice President and General Manager of Photonis USA, Scientific Detectors. He continued, “This product represents our industry-leading MCP manufacturing, our extensive knowledge of vacuum-based detection systems and a real market need for short beam time imaging to preserve and protect the items being imaged from damage.”  He added that units have been tested at several research facilities, producing both cold neutron and thermal neutron images.

The Photonis Neutronic [i] provides superior <50 µm spatial resolution for still images, combined with high detection efficiency of 70% cold neutron or 50% thermal neutron imaging1, offering still images in just seconds - a significant improvement over scintillator-based systems. This combination of high detection efficiency and superior spatial resolution means that the time exposure of imaged items is limited, so that they are not damaged or activated when compared to traditional neutron imaging, which is often performed over a period of multiple hours.

Neutronic [i] can be used with any neutron source and is easily connected to a camera for images via a mirror/lens/camera set up. The result is a system that can be changed, adjusted or serviced as needed, while reducing the beam time required to acquire an image by more than half, making it suitable for smaller reactors or portable applications, while freeing up additional beam time in larger facilities.

1.  A.S. Tremsin et al., Improved efficiency of high resolution thermal and cold neutron imaging, Nucl. Instr. Meth. A628 (2011) 415–418