STARFIRE INDUSTRIES LLC — Department of Energy SBIR Phase II: 02c

Description

AmBe (α,n) radiochemical neutron sources are used in the US oil & gas industry for geophysical well logging. Due to the adverse radiological and material properties 241AmBe, there is an urgent need to prevent intentional or accidental diversion and/or use as a radiological dispersal device. With over 9000 active sources in the field, it is difficult to track and safeguard these materials. Development of an alternative source is a compelling scenario for risk reduction. The primary obstacle cited for 241AmBe replacement is that a change to the source effects the neutron emission spectrum and properties—requiring recalibration and tooling redesign. Having a neutron source with a “more comparable” neutron energy spectrum to 241AmBe would greatly assist with the transition problem for near term operating source replacement and industry acceptance. The 7Li(d,n) fusion reaction potentially offers a means to generate high energy >13MeV neutrons without using tritium or other radioisotope. Plus, a mixture of D(d,n) and 7Li(d,n) provides the best of both worlds for neutron porosity sensitivity at 2.5MeV and stimulating inelastic gamma rays at 13MeV for C/O ratio and gamma spectroscopy measurements. The on/off pulsed nature of the proposed accelerator would allow a multifunction “allinone” tool for well loggers. In Phase I, we demonstrated a clear pathway to increasing accelerating energy to improve the 7Li(d,n) cross section. We also demonstrated a novel target configuration what is robust to temperature, shock and vibration, and suitable for neutron production. 7Li(d,n) neutrons were measured and quantified with a clear, convincing path for Phase II full scale implementation to replace a 16Ci 241AmBe. This SBIR project has the potential for industry changing impact—alleviating the need for AmBe (and possibly DT) for wellbore applications. Eliminating all radioisotopes will dramatically lower the cost of ownership, making an electric generator competitive with AmBe and lowering the barrier for adoption. Eliminating the need for radioisotopes in the field will improve safety and lower the risk for terrorism. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits The technology has immediate application for radiochemical replacement. Other benefits are potential for sensor systems for gamma ray inspection for explosives, carbon heating value measurement and oxygen ratio estimation. Security inspection and industrial clients in raw materials processing will greatly benefit from the high energy neutron capability with lower cost and improved safety. Key Words: DD Neutron Generator, AmBe Replacement, Radiological Dispersal Device, Source Replacement, Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis, Well Logging