Speaker
Dr
Aaron Craft
(Idaho National Laboratory)
Description
Aaron E. Craft, Ph.D.
Idaho National Laboratory
email: aaron.craft@inl.gov
phone: +1 208-201-4242
The Neutron Radiography Reactor (NRAD) at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) provides neutron imaging capabilities for evaluation of highly-radioactive objects. Neutron radiographs are currently acquired using the transfer method with converter foils and x-ray film. While this process produces high-quality neutron radiographs with a large field of view, it is expensive and time consuming. Furthermore, the time and expense of the current process preclude performing neutron tomography as a routine examination technique. If neutron tomography is to be realized as a routine technique, modern digital neutron imaging systems must be developed that can operate in high radiation environments and for highly-radioactive specimens. Towards this goal, INL has begun developing camera-scintillator based neutron imaging systems. A first-generation system was built in collaboration with colleagues from FRM-II and tested in the NRAD’s East Radiography Station (ERS) at INL. Useful neutron radiographs of non-radioactive test objects were acquired despite image noise and disruptions with system electronics caused by the high gamma dose rate in the ERS neutron beam of >2 Sv/hr. Subsequent efforts acquired a series of images of a surrogate fuel specimen at various angles that revealed an internal crack that is not distinguishable in a single radiograph, thus demonstrating the utility and potential benefits of neutron tomography for such applications. The lessons learned from these initial efforts informed design of a second system that is currently being built. This presentation will describe the activities thus far, imaging system design and approach, and plans for future activities.
Primary author
Dr
Aaron Craft
(Idaho National Laboratory)
