Detection of neutrons using a novel three-dimensional optical random access memory technology (3D-ORAM)

Abstract

We report for the first time, the development of a 3D optical random access memory material for neutron dosimetry. Detection of energetic neutrons is important in many applications, spanning from radioactive waste monitoring to space exploration. These anthracene-based photochromic dosimeters show a decrease in fluorescence intensity following exposure to energetic neutrons. Unlike current neutron dosimeters, where foreknowledge of the neutron energy is necessary to determine an exposure dose, these materials can be used in unknown environments (e.g. space exploration). A readout system has also been developed to determine the radiation characteristics (e.g. neutron energy) necessary for estimating dose. The results presented in this work, demonstrate the potential of these novel materials for space exploration and other applications where foreknowledge of neutron energy is unknown and current dosimeters are incapable of providing accurate dose information.