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Improvements in high energy particle accelerator detectors are needed to realize their potential for new discoveries in basic physics. The micromegas detector could achieve the best performance and lowest cost for the large structures required. Reducing critical dimensions and optimizing material choices is expected to increase gain, count rate and stability. Agiltron will use new lithography ap ...

We propose to develop a combination Tip-Enhanced Raman Scattering and Shear-Force Microscopy (TERS-SFM) instrument to study the composition and morphology of nanoparticles, surfaces, and biofilms on any substrate material. The instrument developed during Phase I will rely upon Scanning Tunneling Microscopy combined with TERS (TERS-STM) to test the effects of various excitation wavelengths and tip ...

Better methodologies for the rapid detection of pathogenic bacteria and viruses are needed. A particular problem with current antibody-based assays is cross-reactivity with similar, but harmless, species. Radiation Monitoring Devices, Inc. proposes developing nucleic acid-based affinity reagents (aptamers) against botulinum neurotoxin, as well as against a model pathogenic virus (VSV) and spore (B ...

In the proposed program we plan to investigate novel semiconductor neutron detectors based on the wide bandgap, lithium containing compositions LiMgP LiMgAs and LiZnP. The goal of the program is to produce detector quality crystals and to demonstrate efficient thermal neutron detection, with the possibility of providing neutron gamma discrimination. We will examine the synthesis and purification o ...

In the proposed program, we plan to investigate novel semiconductor neutron detectors based on the wide bandgap lithium containing compositions LiGaSe2, LiGaTe2, LiInS2, and LiInSe2. The goal of the program is to produce detector quality crystals and to demonstrate efficient thermal neutron detection, with the possibility of providing neutron gamma discrimination. We will examine the synthesis and ...

Neutron detection is one of the methods used in revealing illicit nuclear materials. Currently, there is an ongoing search for new and better neutron detectors prompted by anticipated shortages of He-3 that is used in many of the current detection systems. This effort proposes and investigation and development of a new thermal neutron and gamma scintillator. The scintillator belongs to already pro ...

Nuclear instrumentation for the detection of thermal neutrons relies heavily upon 3He because of its desirable nuclear properties and physical characteristics. The decline in production combined with increased demand has depleted the 3He stockpile and the supply of 3He is presently insufficient for US needs. The proposed effort seeks to address this problem by developing detector technology to hel ...

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): High Performance Detectors for SPECT P.I.: Dr. Michael R. Squillante Abstract Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is a powerful, noninvasive medical imaging modality that mathematically reconstructs the three dimensional distribution of a radionuclide throughout the body of a human patient or a research animal. Typically, the collected data are d ...

Secondary neutrons make a significant contribution to the total absorbed dose received by space crews during long duration space missions However, only a limited number of measurements of the dose contribution from secondary neutrons have been made. In part this is due to an inability to easily discriminate between the fraction of dose which results from secondary neutrons and that which results f ...

To further advance the characterization and utility of microcantilevers, next generation optical detectors with higher frequency response, improved displacement resolution and lower noise for weak signal detection are needed. Consequently, Radiation Monitoring Devices, Inc. (RMD) will develop a turnkey optical detector module for use in characterizing the displacement and resonant frequencies of m ...