Implementation and characterisation of new neutron imaging system for dynamic processes investigation at the Es-Salam research reactor

Neutron imaging is a powerful method for non-destructive investigations where high penetration through metals and in particular high contrast for hydrogenous materials maybe exploited. Due to the complexity of digital neutron static or video image formation, image capture conditions and parameters must be accurately selected. In this work, implementation of a new neutron imaging system based on CCD camera and LiF–ZnS scintillator is presented. The image characteristics in terms of contrast, noise and dynamic range and investigation limits of this new imaging system were studied as a function of the neutron source properties.

► Neutron imaging of boiling water at low neutron flux with a new imaging system. ► This dynamic process was successively captured with a scintillator and CCD camera based system. ► The image characteristics in terms of contrast, noise and dynamic range limits were studied. ► Criteria and acquisition conditions for obtaining the best data were identified.