Neutron detection experiments with ionization counter and ⁶Li converter

The detection of neutrons with thin ⁶Li containing films or layers within an ionization chamber is discussed. A detection efficiency of 50% for thermal neutrons is obtainable with three 100-μm thin ⁶Li foils. Preliminary measurements were performed with converters which contain a 1-μm thin ⁶LiF layer. The detector efficiency is only 3%. Pulse height distributions were measured and analyzed for the gases Ar, CF₄, and C₂F₆ at pressures between 0.5 and 5 atm and at voltages between 50 and 500 V. Diffraction peaks from polycrystalline iron and semi-crystalline pyrolytic graphite were measured in TOF mode and are presented.