4π Neutron detection with low-intensity radioactive beams

The feasibility of inclusive neutron production measurements in reactions induced by low-intensity radioactive beams using a 4π thermalization counter is studied. The time response of the detector is investigated experimentally by a technique that results in an enhanced sensitivity to weak components with long capture times. Complementary Monte Carlo simulations are presented. The capture time response is found to be independent on the neutron energy above 0.1 MeV. The capability of the capture time information in the unambiguous identification of neutron signals correlated to the projectile arrival on the target even in the presence of an intense background contamination is shown. As an application case, the 8Li(4He,n)11B reaction at the Big-Bang temperature is commented.