Abstract:
A neutron detector exploiting the
6Li(n, α)
3H reaction was fabricated by using semiconductor epitaxial 4H-SiC as the detection medium. This work aimed to develop neutron detector with increased resistance to radiation effects, thus it can be used in harsh environments. The
6LiF neutron converter layer was deposited by magnetron sputtering method and was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM). While the reverse voltages of the studied diode were tested from 10 V up to 600 V, the reverse current was below 6.4 nA, indicating a successful formation of Schottky contact between epitaxial 4H-SiC and Ni. The resolution factor for 5.486 MeV alpha particles was acquired as 4.5% by means of a
241Am source to this purpose. Response signals of neutron detector based on 4H-SiC Schottky diode to thermal neutron generated by critical assembly and slowed down by paraffin wax were obtained.