Measurements and Monte Carlo Simulations of DD Fusion Neutrons Generated by FuZE

The Fusion Z-pinch Experiment (FuZE) employs the sheared-flow-stabilization concept to form plasma pinches at Zap Energy. Neutral deuterium gas injected into the machine is ionized, gains energy from the capacitor banks, and then induces nuclear fusion reactions that emit 2.45-MeV neutrons as one of the reaction products. The neutron spatial and energy distributions can be used to better understand the properties of the constituent fusion fuel. Fast plastic scintillators coupled with photomultiplier tubes are used to measure the DD fusion neutrons at FuZE. In addition, FuZE is modeled in the Monte Carlo radiation transport code - PHITS, and the detector responses are simulated in aid of determining the origin of the neutrons. The comparison of the measurements and the simulation results with various FuZE experimental parameters, which include the gas injection timing, gas injection pressure, bank voltages, etc., will be presented.