Speaker
Description
'Electron linear accelerators (LINACs) have emerged as versatile neutron source, offering a reactor-free alternative for a wide range of scientific, medical, and industrial applications. In these systems, high-energy electron beams generate bremsstrahlung photons in high-Z targets, which subsequently induce photoneutron reactions in suitable converter materials. An comprehensive summary of the underlying physics of photoneutron production, including reaction thresholds, neutron yield scaling, and spectral characteristics will be presented. Key technological aspects of electron LINAC-driven neutron sources will also be discussed, with emphasis on accelerator parameters, target and converter design, thermal management, and radiation shielding. Performance of such systems will be compared with other contemporary and alternative approaches in terms of neutron flux, cost effectiveness, footprint, and operational flexibility. Current and emerging applications of this system in neutron radiography, nuclear data measurements, and neutron activation analysis will be highlighted.'