Compact Calibration Source of Neutrons on the Basis of the ^252 Cf Radionuclide and a Silicon Semiconductor Detector

Operation of a model of a compact neutron source that can be used to calibrate dark-matter and electron-antineutrino detectors and to determine their response functions is demonstrated. The calibration neutron source in question is a combination of the ^252 Cf radionuclide, which undergoes spontaneous fission, producing neutrons, and an original silicon semiconductor detector. The latter provides a time reference for the neutron-emission instant by recording signals from fission fragments.