Development plan of Pu NDA system using ZnS ceramic scintillator

Kureta, Masatoshi   ; Soyama, Kazuhiko  ; Seya, Michio; Ozu, Akira  ; Haruyama, Mitsuo; Takase, Misao; Sakasai, Kaoru  ; Nakamura, Tatsuya  ; To, Kentaro  

Alternative techniques to neutron detection by helium-3 for nuclear security and safeguards systems are necessary to be developed since helium-3 shortage is serious. With support of Japanese government (the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology), we have started an R&D project of Pu NDA system using ZnS ceramic scintillator. Here we present development plan, production of a new type of ZnS ceramic scintillator experimentally and basic design of a PCAS alternative Pu NDA system. We are planning the demonstration tests using the alternative NDA system comparing with the current PCAS in which the helium-3 counters are installed.