Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title NEUTRONS: DETECTION AND MODELLING
Code PHYS807
Coordinator Professor AJ Boston
Physics
Andrew.Boston@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2024-25 Level 7 FHEQ Whole Session 15

Aims

To give a practical and theoretical knowledge of neutron detection using gas and scintillation detectors. To use a modelling code to predict detector performance


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) To be able to describe the interaction of neutrons with materials.

(LO2) To be able to describe the construction and operating principles of gas and scintillation detectors.

(LO3) To set up and use neutron detectors.

(LO4) To use the MCNP code to model detector performance.

(LO5) To develop a simulation for the solution of an authentic neutron-detection problem.

(S1) Problem solving skills

(S2) Mathematical skills

(S3) Analytical skills

(S4) ICT / Computational skills

(S5) Investigative skills

(S6) Communication skills


Syllabus

 

1 The nature and origin of neutrons, interaction of neutrons with matter. BF3 proportional counters; fundamentals, wall effects, boron lined detectors. 3He counters; fundamentals and use for spectrometry. Fission chambers. 6Li scintillation detectors. Fast neutron detection and spectrometry. Self-powered neutron detectors. Neutron detectors for reactor instrumentation. The modelling uses the MCNP to investigate the performance of 3He detectors and to gain an understanding of their operational parameters (pressure, size etc). Results are compared to experiment. The effects of moderation, scattering and collimation are then investigated in the model.

An information search on the practical characteristics of commercially available neutron detectors aimed at providing solutions to applied problems in the nuclear industry. A written report will cover this work and the solution to an applied neutron detection problem including the model simulation of the situation.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1
Description: Lecture
Teaching Method 2
Description: Laboratory Work
Teaching Method 3
Description: Problem-based Learning


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 8

    25

    33
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 117
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Assessment 1 There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :n/a    50       
Assessment 2 There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :n/a    50       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.