There is a shortfall in commercial capability for specialized detector fabrication with glass-to-metal seals for some nonproliferation needs, such as alpha detection in associated particle neutron generators. The DOE is interested in developing a reliably-produced source for hermetic glass-metal fiberoptic faceplate (FOP) assemblies that will be utilized in neutron imaging systems. The HiFunda team will leverage its extensive knowledge and experience with the development and use of high-temperature materials, seals, ceramic/glass processing, and leak testing to develop, demonstrate, and commercialize the capability to produce robust sealed FOP assemblies. In this project, HiFunda will work with ORNL and two developers of neutron generators, Starfire Industries, LLC and Adelphi Technologies, Inc., to develop voice-of-customer (VOC)-based FOP designs as well as a thermal-expansion matched glass frit material and robust processes for sealing FOP assemblies. Cost models will be established to identify cost drivers and to evaluate trade-offs between design, performance, and cost. A detailed commercialization plan will be developed and commercialization partners will be identified for participation in Phase II. The proposed approach will help enable state-of-the-art, portable, neutron generators for imaging thick objects for various DOE/NNSA mission spaces. This can also help portable neutron imaging become more commonplace similar in scale to the portable X-ray imaging market. Portable neutron imaging has immediate application for exquisite non-destructive characterization which is the cornerstone of advanced manufacturing, assuring the integrity of electronic supply chains, nuclear non-proliferation treaty verification and stockpile stewardship, and other security applications such as port of entry security, emergency response and radioactive waste storage.
