DT111 Neutron Generator

The DT111 is a new sealed, high output neutron generator using the deuterium-tritium reaction. The expected output is 10¹¹ neutrons/second. This output is tens times that of the most intense Penning diode sources, and at a much lower cost per neutron. The generator will have applications in security for baggage and container screening for the detection of explosives or contraband, and for the detection of special nuclear materials in cargo or luggage. This generator will have a very high neutron output and could have applications in BNCT (Boron Neutron Capture Therapy). It should also have applications in imaging for non-elemental analysis. The DT generator is based on a nuclear reaction between two of hydrogen's isotopes, deuterium and tritium. Tritium is a radioactive gas, so the DT generators are sealed. Our DD generators are open, since there is no danger in pumping out trace quantities of deuterium into the environment. Tritium is a radioactive gas and so US NRC regulations require that US customers of our DT source possess a Type A Broadscope specific license authorizing possession of tritium. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) website has further details of licensing requirements (http://www.nrc.gov/). No license is required to purchase or run any of the other neutron generators available from Adelphi Technology Inc.

The DT reaction leads to much more energetic neutrons that the DD reaction. DT neutrons have energy 14.1 MeV, whereas neutrons originating from the DD reaction have only 2.45 MeV. Thus, the DT neutrons will penetrate further material and induce a different range of activation than DD neutrons. The output energy is an important consideration in shielding. DD shielding is straight forward, simply a few inches of high density polyethylene followed by an inch of borated polyethylene. The 14.1 MeV neutrons are much more energetic and require much more material in order to moderate and absorb these neutrons. Shielding designs are therefore much more significant. We would be happy to work with you to help you develop the shielding solution that might be appropriate for your DT generator application.