Monte-carlo simulation of the prompt gamma neutron activation analysis system with a femtosecond laser

The prompt gamma neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) system is a useful tool to detect the concentrations of the various composite elements of a sample by measuring the prompt gammas that are activated by neutrons. The composition in terms of the constituent elements is essential information for the identification of the material species of any unknown object. A PGNAA system initiated by a high-power laser has been designed and optimized by using a Monte-Carlo simulation. In order to improve the signal-to-background ratio, we designed an improved neutron-shielding structure and imposed a proper time window in the analysis. In particular, the yield ratio of nitrogen to carbon in a TNT sample was investigated in detail. These simulation results demonstrate that the gamma rays from an explosive sample under a vast level of background can indeed be identified.