The Fast Neutron Irradiator (FNI) is an ex-core irradiation facility that replaced three existing beam ports and one pneumatic tube. The FNI has been specifically designed to generate a significant presence of fast energy neutrons over thermal and epithermal energies. This facility generates a fast-to-thermal flux ratio greater than 4000:1 with a 1 Mega electron volt (MeV) equivalent flux of 8E+10 neutrons / centimeter square per second (n/(cm^2 sec)) and a 20% range of flux distribution over the sample area. Gamma dose rates to the sample are less than 110 kilorad / hour.
The FNI Sample Canister supports samples as large as 30cm x 30cm x 12cm. Samples are loaded on a sample plate with sulfur dosimetry to monitor result. Samples may be loaded on the front or rear face of the Sample Canister depending on the size of the specimen. The sample canister can also be rotated 180 degrees for a midpoint rotation irradiation to offer symmetric exposures for high density or surface sensitive materials.
Total Neutron Flux at 1 Megawatt (MW):
8E+10 n/(cm^2 sec)
Typical Uses:
- Radiation environments similar to space
- Damage displacement testing
- Electronics testing for aerospace and defense systems