A new compact device for efficient neutron counting using a CMOS active pixel sensor

A CMOS active pixel sensor, originally designed for the tracking of minimum ionizing particles in high energy physics, has been recently used for the detection of fast neutrons. Data were taken at the French neutron reference facility (IRSN, Cadarache) with an Am-Be source and a polyethylene radiator. A high intrinsic efficiency (1.6×10^{-3}) has been obtained, which is compatible with results from calculations and Monte Carlo simulations. This experiment paves the way for a fully electronic personal neutron dosemeter