Project title: Superconducting 2D material-based neutron detectors
Project description:
Neutron scattering and imaging methods are used increasingly in a broad range of research areas. The neutron beam at the newer facilities are charachterized by being increasingly higher for every new facility as well as pulsed to allow for Time of Flight measurements. These charachteristics opens up for new possibilitie, all of which can not be fully utilized with the detectors currently available.
Furthermore helium-3, which is the element most widely used for neutron detection at large-scale facilities, is experiencing an increasing supply shortage. Building detectors based on other elements than Helium-3, but without compromising the performance is crucial to fully utilize the possibilities of the future neutron sources.
The project focuses on creating neutron detectors using 2D superconducting materials. The aim is to investigate the scientific and technological possibilities of building fast, large area neutron detectors with high sensitivity and capable of receiving high neutron flux to be used in neutron research facilities.
The project consists of two paths. The first utilizes the abilities of superconducting materials to function as an ultra-senitive bolometer, when kept at a critical temperature. Adjusting the thermal circuit and using nano-fabrication methods, results have shown that this type of detector would be suitable for high-flux applications.
The second path focuses on using atomic layer deposition to create superconducting structures which is sensitive enough to detect single neutrons.
mebyb@dtu.dk