TF SBIR2012
1.) Scientific/Technical Approach
FRIB uses 0.5-2.5 Telsa strength magnetic dipoles to separate rare isotopes. Currently Hall probes are used to set B-field and then remove probe during operation to prevent damage. Gamma, neutron, and proton fluxes are about 2 E10 n/cm^2/s (mostly thermal neutrons).
If its mostly thermal neutrons then why not park the hall probe near the dipole field and shield it with a thermal neutron capture them with a liner?
Why do you need to monitor the B-field when beam is on?
Optical Frequency Domain Reflectometry will be used to measure B-field to an accuracy of 0.01%. Probes will be able to withstand fast neutron fluxes of 10^18n/cm^2 = 1 year in the FRIB.
a.) To what extent does the proposal build upon or extent current stat-of-the-art
The project proposes adapt Optical Frequency Domain Reflectometry technology licensed from NASA to develop a 0.5 - 5 Telsa magnetic fields monitoring device that can withstand radiation environments containing thermal neutron fluxes on the order of 2 E10 n/cm^2/s.
b.) How new or unique is the idea
c.) Hos significant is the scientific or technical challenge
d.) Is a breakthrough possible
The propsal seek to develop a device to measure the magnetic field of a dipole (0.5 - 2.5 T)to an accuracy of 0.01% which can survive in a radiation environment with a neutron, gamma, and proton combined flux of 10^10 particle/cm^2/s. There is a statement that thermal neutrons make up most of the flux. There is little information on how much of the remaiing flux is from photons and protons thus it is difficult to determine if the device could be degraded from the radiation damage of the photons or protons.
e.) does applicant have knowledge of the subject
f.) have concepts been presented thoroughly
2.) Ability to carry out the project in a cost effective manner
a.) Qualification of the PI ,staff, and facilities
b.) soundness of Phase I work
On pg 7 of the proposal it was stated that Object 1 for phase 1 will be to determine the sensor requirements need by FRIB. This is a little confusig given the goals shown on pg 13 would imply that the Objective for phase 1 has already been achieved?
c.) does effort justify the cost.
3.) Impact
a.) benefits of proposed work to technology or economy
b.) liklihood work will lead to marketable product
c.) liklihood product will attract further funding