On the resolving and source identification limitations of a real-time fast-neutron imaging system

Passive imaging of fast neutrons has great potential in aiding the assessment of radiation environments. Knowledge of the spatial dependence of neutron flux allows the location of neutron sources to be deduced, additionally contributing the neutron components of radiation dosimetry calculations which can strongly impact strategies in scenarios such as decommissioning or accident response. Using the new prototype mixed-field imaging system at Lancaster University we have previously reported to the Nuclear Science Symposium in 2012 [1] the success of imaging sources of fast-neutron radiation and that neutron spectroscopy can be used alongside imaging techniques to identify different types of neutron sources. This research seeks to further investigate these applications by experimentally determining the resolving power of the system, in both imaging and radiation source recognition techniques.