Recently, the team led by Qian Yuzhong from the Neutron Technology Application Research Center of the Institute of Energy, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, achieved a major breakthrough in the development of compact neutron generators. The results were published in the international journal Physics Open under the title “2×101? n/s DD-Neutron Yield Achieved in a Compact RF-Ion-Source-Driven Neutron Generator”. The team successfully developed a compact D-D neutron generator based on a radio-frequency (RF) ion source, achieving a maximum neutron yield of 2.09×101? n/s and a system effective operating time of up to 99.8%. This is the first publicly reported compact neutron generator based on an RF ion source to exceed a neutron yield of 101? n/s.

The research achievement has received high praise from international peers. Several reviewers noted: “The paper is a useful account of the development of a D-D neutron generator that has a high neutron output for its class. The development of such compact generators is indeed a key area in the field.” They also emphasized: “This work represents a significant advance in compact neutron source technology and will be of strong interest to the community working on neutron generators based on accelerator-driven sources.” Another reviewer specifically pointed out: “In this manuscript, a high-intensity compact D-D neutron generator based on RF ion sources was developed. The neutron yield of 101? n/s shows the leading level in China.” These comments indicate that China has reached the international forefront in the development of high-intensity compact D-D neutron sources.

This achievement not only demonstrates China’s core technological strength in the field of compact neutron generators, but also provides more efficient and stable neutron source solutions for multiple application areas such as neutron detection, material analysis, and nuclear energy research. It holds important scientific research value and strategic significance.

Figure 1 Maximum neutron yield under different RF power levels  

Figure 2 Real-time evolution of operating parameters for the compact D-D neutron generator

Paper Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666032625000912