Development of Advanced Neutron/Gamma Generators for Imaging and Active Interrogation Applications

We report here on the development of neutron and photon sources for use in imaging and active interrogation applications, where there is a growing urgency for more advanced interrogation tools. These devices include high yield D-D, D-T and T-T fusion reaction based neutron generators and also low energy nuclear reaction based high-energy gamma generators. One common feature in these various devices is the use of a high-efficiency, RF-induction discharge ion source. This discharge method provides high plasma density for high output current, high atomic species from molecular gases for high efficiency neutron or gamma generation and long lifetime. Predictable discharge characteristics of these plasma generators allow accurate modeling for both the beam dynamics and for the heat loads at the target spot. Current status of the neutron and gamma generator development with experimental data will be presented.