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Boron-10 (10B) Radiation Detector

Boron 10 Neutron Detection Module

Dwindling Helium-3 (3He) gas availability has limited industry’s ability to produce radiation detectors used in homeland security applications. GE’s new Boron-10 based detectors from the Reuter Stokes product line fill this void, enabling continued investment in the expansion of the radiation portal monitor installed base.

Traditionally sensors used for these applications have used Helium-3 as their detection medium. In anticipation of the global Helium-3 shortage, GE’s product team developed a replacement detector technology based on Boron-10 . These detectors are key components of radiation portal monitors used in a wide range of applications including screening at our borders and ports.

This new Boron-10 detector design is a culmination of many decades of experience and knowledge of the Reuters Stokes product line design team in the field of radiation detection.

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Features

World-class Research and Development

Beginning with the first Reuter Stokes gas-filled neutron detectors in 1956, GE has been a leader in the research, design and manufacture of radiation sensors for harsh environments. Whether you’re experimenting with neutron scattering or developing a homeland security radiation detection solution, GE Energy can custom-design and deliver the right solution for your needs. With more than 100,000 detectors in service around the world, no one understands your radiation measurement needs better than GE Energy.

Our experienced Technology staff makes extensive use of GE’s network of Global Research Centers to develop cutting edge products. We also have the unique advantage of leveraging insight and experience gained from radiation detection in other applications we serve, such as nuclear power generation and oil & gas exploration.

Why Boron-10?

The Reuter Stokes legacy dates back to the early years of the nuclear industry. During its long history, GE has designed and manufactured an assortment of Helium-3, Boron-10 lined, BF3 and scintillating neutron detectors. Upon learning of the impending Helium-3 shortage, our team set to work developing a replacement technology for Radiation Portal Monitors (RPM).

GE has decades of experience in designing and manufacturing Boron-10 lined detectors. Many have been used in nuclear reactors where our detectors accurately measure neutron levels under the extreme radiation conditions prevalent to the reactor. Our Boron-10 Neutron detection module leverages many of the attributes of the proven, highly reliable Helium-3 detectors deployed today. The result―A neutron detection module that is accurate and reliable, even under the harshest operating conditions.

Key Features & Benefits

  • Drop-in Replacement – integrated moderator, detector, and electronics designed to fit within existing Helium-3 neutron detector moderator envelope.
  • High Neutron Sensitivity – exceeds neutron sensitivity specification (2.5 cps/ng) in many existing Radiation Portal Monitor designs.
  • Excellent Gamma Discrimination – meets intrinsic efficiency and GARRn specification when exposed to gamma radiation up to 100 mR/h.
  • Integrated Electronics – environmentally sealed, analog or digital output. A USB port is available to monitor HV power supply, discriminator setting, current consumption and temperature.
  • Built-in Quality – incorporates many of the design features of today’s helium-3 detectors
  • Product Configurations – available in a variety of sizes and lengths up to 2.2 meters. Module is also available with HN or specified electrical connectors in lieu of electronics.

Specifications

Moderator Module

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
Overall length Up to 2.2 meters
Width Various, 30 cm (typical)
Depth Various, 12.7 cm (typical)

Boron-10 Lined Proportional Counter

Boron-10 lined Inner wall lined with enriched Boron-10
Fill gas Argon mixture
Pressure Less than 1 atmosphere (typical)

Integrated Electronics

Two separate independent systems
Includes HV power supply, preamplifiers, and shaping and summing amplifiers
Environmentally protected
Power requirements: +5VDC(<500mA)
Analog or digital output
USB port to set HV power supply (0 – 1250VDC) and discriminator level, and to monitor and troubleshoot module

Ratings

Temperature -40oC to +55oC
Relative humidity 93%

Configurations

Mechanical Drop-in designs available
Moderator-Detector only (option)
- Connectors: HN (2) or as specified
- Operating voltage: 600 – 1,100 volts
- Capacitance: ~200 pF

Contact Us

Contact TypeContact Information
Application Engineering Nathan Johnson
Tel: (330) 963-2330
Mobile: (330) 352-0754
E-mail: nathan.johnson@ge.com
Global Sales (Excluding Asia)
Carlton Green
Tel: 208 761 8532
Mobile: (208) 761-8532
E-mail: carlton.green@ge.com
Global Sales (Asia) Masaki Urushihara
Tel: 81-3-5544-3815
Mobile: 81-80-3080-7080
E-mail: masaki.urushihara@ge.com

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Descriptions English
Boron 10 Neutron Detection Module Brochure acrobat-reader
Hearing Charter (US Government, Committee on Science & Technology) acrobat-reader
Testimony (US Government, Committee on Science & Technology) acrobat-reader


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