Neutron energy-deposition spectra measurements, and comparisons with Geant4 predictions

Comparisons are presented between measured and predicted energy deposition spectra from neutron-nuclear events within a silicon semiconductor detector. Experiment data are from irradiations performed at the TRIUMF and TSL neutron beam facilities. Predictions are based on the Geant4 radiation transport toolkit, which is applied both to quantify the effects of interactions in the detector and scattering of the neutron source by other experiments upstream of the detector. The predictions highlight the importance of quantifying scattering effects in large experiment setups, the lower-energy neutrons in the continuum of the quasi-monoenergetic spectrum suffering greater scattering. The results are used to correct neutron-induced single event upset cross-section data. Index Terms--Atmospheric radiation, neutron irradiation, pulse-height energy deposition, single event effects, single event upsets.