This SBIR Phase I project, awarded by the National Science Foundation (CFDA 47.084 - NSF Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships program), aims to develop an innovative ultra-compact neutron generator to enhance spectroscopy systems used for nondestructive material analysis. The proposed $273,834 innovation focuses on using a novel lithium niobate piezoelectric transformer configuration to achieve high-gain neutron acceleration without magnetic or high-voltage components, resulting in a neutron generator under 5 pounds, under 10 watts power, and under 90 cubic inches in volume. This represents over an order of magnitude improvement in key performance metrics compared to existing systems. The proposed advancements in the neutron generator technology have the potential to significantly expand the use of neutron-activation analysis in applications ranging from security screening to natural resource exploration, with an estimated $14 million annual market expansion. No sub-awards are planned for this project.
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