Fission-couple neutron sensor
US4614635A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 12, 1983 |
| Grant date | Sep 30, 1986 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 12, 2003 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01T3/04
- WIPO fieldEnvironmental technology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Disclosed is apparatus and method which, in cooperation with an electrical system, analyzes signals generated by detectors placed in a flux field of gamma rays and neutrons. A first detector with a first sensor is coupled to the electrical system. A second detector with a second sensor is coupled to the first sensor and the electrical system. A fissile material is housed in the first detector, and is heatable by gamma ray and neutron capture to in turn heat the first sensor, which generates a first signal which is delivered to the electrical system. A non-fissile material is housed in the second detector, and is heatable by gamma ray capture to in turn heat the second sensor, which generates a second signal. The first and second signals are analyzed in the electrical system to determine the power level, neutron flux, and gamma ray flux within the flux field. Also provided is a microtechnology apparatus and method for measuring neutron flux. A first thermocouple is formed on a substrate, and is covered by a fissile material heatable by gamma ray and neutron capture. This heats the hot junction first thermocouple and generates a signal. A second thermocouple is formed on the substrat…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.