2026 Undergraduate Research Showcase

Design and Fabrication of Neutron Shielding for Neutron Generators

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-24-2026

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Brian Jaques, Allyssa Bateman, and Dr. Scott Phillips

Abstract

The Neutron Sciences Laboratory in the Micron Center for Materials Research will house two Thermo-Fisher Scientific P385 neutron generators, requiring additional shielding to meet Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) dose-rate limits. Borated polyethylene, which combines hydrogen-rich neutron moderation with boron-10 absorption, was identified as an effective shielding material. This study focused on designing a suitable shielding geometry and evaluating on-campus manufacturing routes for producing borated polyethylene. Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) simulations were performed to model neutron transport and determine the optimal shielding thickness and configuration. After completing the simulations, potential fabrication methods were assessed through a review of published studies, with consideration of the capabilities in the Boise Circular Materials Laboratory (BCML). The evaluation emphasized materials that can be sourced at scale and processed using existing BCML equipment. Research shows that combining recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with boron-rich micro-particles in a melt-mixer yields effective neutron-attenuating composites. Among candidate additives, boron carbide, boron nitride, and boric acid powders have demonstrated strong performance. These results establish a theoretical basis for producing borated polyethylene shielding on campus and will guide future fabrication of custom components for the Neutron Sciences Laboratory.

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