Neutron detector array at IUAC: Design features and instrumentation developments

The characteristics and performance of the newly commissioned neutron detector array at IUAC are described. The array consists of 100 BC501 liquid scintillators mounted in a semi-spherical geometry and are kept at a distance of 175 cm from the reaction point. Each detector is a 5 ″ × 5 ″ cylindrical cell coupled to 5 ″ diameter photomultiplier tube (PMT). Signal processing is realized using custom-designed home-made integrated electronic modules which perform neutron – gamma discrimination using zero cross timing and time-of-flight (TOF) technique. Compact custom built high voltage power supply developed using DC–DC converters are used to bias the detector. The neutrons are recorded in coincidence with fission fragments which are detected using multi-wire proportional counters mounted inside a 1 m diameter SS target chamber. The detectors and electronics have been tested off-line using radioactive sources and the results are presented.