Speaker
Description
The Frascati Neutron Generator (FNG) is a 14 MeV neutron source with a maximum strength of 1x10$^{11}$ s$^{-1}$ designed and built by ENEA in the Frascati research center, in operation since 1992. It is a linear electrostatic accelerator in which an ion beam of D+ is accelerated up to 300 keV and 1 mA of current. 14 MeV neutrons are produced via the D(T, n)$\alpha$ fusion nuclear reaction using a tritiated target on which the ion beam impacts. FNG can, also, produce 2.45 MeV neutrons by replacing the tritiated target with a deuterated one, thus triggering the D(D, n)He$^3$ fusion reaction.
Thanks to its unique characteristics, FNG strongly supported the Fusion Neutronics program through benchmark experiments and nuclear data validation for over thirty years and is also employed in a wide range of other relevant scientific activities. Among them, one of the most significant activities is the investigation of radiation effects on electronic components under neutron irradiation. For this purpose, FNG is involved in national and international projects such as RADNEXT, (RADiation facility network for the Exploration of effects for indusTry and research) and ASIF (Italian Space Agency Supported Irradiation Facilities).
RADNEXT is an H2020 INFRAIA-02-2020 (Interacting Activities for Starting Communities) infrastructure program with the objective of creating a network of facilities and related irradiation methodology for responding to the emerging needs for electronics component and system irradiation. ASIF is a national program aimed at coordinating irradiation facilities to support spatial mission needs. Additionally, an ENEA project called GENeuSIS (General Experimental Neutron System Irradiation Station), was recently launched to develop a modular and customizable irradiation station to be installed at FNG. It aims to study neutron induced Single Event Effects (SEE) on electronics by reproducing neutron and gamma energy spectra in specific ITER locations. The present work gives to the audience an overview of all the aforementioned activities and partnerships, along with their status, highlighting the capabilities of the machine in investigating the radiation effects on electronic devices.
| Scientific Topic 6 | Radiation damage to materials |
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