Development of SERS based sensors for thermal neutron detection at VESUVIO

Aim of this proposal is the test of SERS based sensors for the detection of thermal neutrons. Detection of thermal neutrons is of interest in many applicative and basic science fields. The 3He and 10BF3 gas-filled detectors are the most widely used for the detection of a low-energy neutron. Nevertheless, alternative detection methods are highly desirable. We will test the neutron detection capabilities of solid-state SERS based sensors based on nanostructured Au NPs functionalized with 10B containing molecules. After irradiation with thermal neutrons, the loss of B atoms will be detected by changes in the Raman spectra. High sensitivity of the method is ensured by the SERS activity of the substrates. We plan to use the VESUVIO instrument owing to its flexible settings of size and energy bands, and also because the beam is well characterized.