Neutron detection through an SRAM-based test bench

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a technique for the detection of neutrons that relies on the sensitivity of SRAM cells to particle radiation. In particular, we introduce a system based on a memory test bench that records the neutron reactions in the memory array. This system allows a good flexibility from different points of view. It is conceived to be modular, programmable, low power consuming and portable. Consequently, it can operate in various experimental conditions such as under artificial sources of particles as well as in natural ambience, from the earth surface to spatial environment. The system is also independent of the type of memory, allowing the use and the study of the interaction between particles and electronic devices built with different technologies.

Nucleation of Supercooled Water by Neutrons: Latitude Dependence and Implications for Cloud Modelling

“…Our recent study [1] held the water supercooled at about −18˚C to −19˚C, suggesting that at −30˚C supercooled water will be significantly more sensitive to the effects of incident neutrons, especially if higher in flux and energy, primarily the former, at higher altitudes [20] [22] [48]. We assume momentum transfer to a nucleus of H or O, pushing the molecule over the energy barrier, as described by classical nucleation theory.…”

“…If neutrons, or other radiation, can cause deeply supercooled water droplets in clouds to nucleate and freeze, there exists the potential for re-evaluation of existing data globally on nucleation when no obvious INs were present, or at least were thought to be present in insufficient numbers to explain the observed cloud freezing. It is known the cosmogenic neutron flux toward Earth is larger at the North Pole than at the equator [20] [21], although likely due to the neutrons being secondary particles created by muons and other charged particles, which would be more prevalent at the poles, since they are affected by the magnetic field [22] [23] [24]. However, a connection between atmospheric dynamics in the troposphere and the flux of high-energy cosmic rays has been sought for many years [25] [26].…”