A basic neutron howitzer

Abstract

The design and construction of a neutron howitzer user a 0.5 Ci Am-Be source is decribed in detail. The purpose of this device is to serve as an educational tool to get insight of the experimental nuclear physics. A 2000 liters stainless steel tank filled with a refined wax constitutes the shell of this device; inside it has an arrangement of four perpendicular stailess steel experimentation channels placed horizontally, plus one vertically and centered tube for the positioning of the neutron source. The five tubes can be refilled if necessary with a moderating element, polyethylene in our case. The measured external and internal levels of radiation fulfill the maximum permissible radiation levels accepted internationally for this type of apparatus. This neutron howitzer has the mechanical resistence required by the nuclear international organisms. PACS: 28.41 Rc; 29.25. Dz; 01.50.Pa