A Monte Carlo Model of the Neutron Detector Based on Lithium-Glass Scintillator

Abstract

A Monte Carlo model of the thermal-neutron scintillation detector based on NE 912 lithium glass has been created and verified. The simulation was validated by comparing its result to experimental data from a prototype detector exposed to thermal-neutron and γ-ray beams. The light yield in the scintillator for a captured thermal neutron, the quenching factor, and the decay times of the scintillator were determined. The accuracy in reproducing the pulse shapes obtained in the experiment is sufficient to allow analysis of experimental data and estimation of the efficiency of n/γ discrimination techniques. Based on the simulation, it is possible to develop detector models with a low γ-ray sensitivity using heterogeneous composite scintillators with various geometries.