Resonance region capture cross section measurements in iron and tantalum using a new C6D6 detector array

Abstract

The measurement of accurate and precise neutron capture cross section data in the keV resonance region has historically been challenging due to the heavy dominance of neutron scattering in this energy region. Because capture measurements rely on the detection of the prompt cascade of gamma-ray photons emitted in capture reactions, neutrons that scatter off the sample being investigated can create a confounding false signal if they are subsequently captured in the surrounding environment.A new capture detection systems has been developed at the Rensselaer Gaerttner Linear Accelerator Center with a significantly diminished sensitivity to the effects of scattered neutrons.