Evolution in boron-based GEM detectors for diffraction measurements: from planar to 3D converters

The so-called 'He-3-crisis' has motivated the neutron detector community to undertake an intense R&D programme in order to develop technologies alternative to standard He-3 tubes and suitable for neutron detection systems in future spallation sources such as the European spallation source (ESS). Boron-based GEM (gas electron multiplier) detectors are a promising 'He-3-free' technology for thermal neutron detection in neutron scattering experiments. In this paper the evolution of boron-based GEM detectors from planar to 3D converters with an application in diffraction measurements is presented. The use of 3D converters coupled with GEMs allows for an optimization of the detector performances. Three different detectors were used for diffraction measurements on the INES instrument at the ISIS spallation source. The performances of the GEM-detectors are compared with those of conventional He-3 tubes installed on the INES instrument. The conceptual detector with the 3D converter used in this paper reached a count rate per unit area of about 25% relative to the currently installed He-3 tube. Its timing resolution is similar and the signal-to-background ratio (S/B) is 2 times lower.