STARFIRE INDUSTRIES LLC SBIR Phase I Award, January 2020

There is a need for small SWaP-C portable neutron generators for DoD and industrial applications such as neutron and gamma radiographic imaging and directed high-energy neutrons (>6MeV) to penetrate objects for active interrogation. Electrostatic DC acceleration is commonly used for x-ray and portable neutron generators on order of 100kVs with low cost and maintenance needs. There is opportunity to use novel materials and innovative high-voltage system design to push accelerating voltages into the MV-range enabling breakthrough performance and opening up new applications for neutron imaging. This research addresses technology gaps identified through the DARPA ICONS program and new opportunities to push the state of the art.