The SHADES neutron detection array

Abstract

The detection of neutrons in low energy astrophysics poses two main problems: low cross section measurement requires high detection efficiency and ideally, beam-induced and external neutron backgrounds should be identified through an energy sensitive detector. In recent years, capture-gated neutron spectroscopy has found new opportunities to grow through new materials and better availability of modern data acquisition systems. In this work we will present the design, expected capabilities and preliminary characterization of the hybrid neutron detector array SHADES. Its purpose is the first direct measurement of the reaction 22Ne(α, n)25Mg in the Gamow window for s-process nucleosynthesis with LUNA-MV in the deep underground environment of the LNGS.

Detectors and Shieldings: Past and Future at LUNA

“…The SHADES (Scintillator-He3 Array for Deep-underground Experiments on the S-process) is a neutron detection array designed to perform a direct cross-section measurement of the astrophysically relevant 22 Ne(α, n) 25 Mg nuclear reaction [84]. Due to the negative Q-value, neutrons from 22 Ne(α, n) 25 Mg are characterized by an energy spectrum extending down to almost zero energy, making their experimental detection very challenging.…”