Numerical study on the characterization of NdFeB permanent magnets with fast-neutrons induced (n, n ′γ) reactions

AbstractThe potential of prompt gamma analysis based on inelastic scattering of 2.5  MeV neutrons for a rapid characterization of NdFeB permanent magnets is investigated by means of numerical simulations using an HPGe detector and a CZT detector-array. The results show that rapid assay of a 42 g magnet can be achieved in some minutes when the neutron flux at sample position is ab out 1.6 × 109 cm−2 s−1 and the detector count rate limited to 500  kcps. Such a high neutron flux could be delivered by a compact 5 MeV proton accelerator with a thick beryllium target for neutron production through the9Be(p,xn)9Be.
Source: Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry - Category: Nuclear Medicine Source Type: research