The Stacked Domino®: A Scalable Neutron Detection Platform for Radiation Instrument Designers Radiation instrument designers are increasingly challenged to deliver systems that are smaller, more power-efficient, and easier to integrate—without compromising neutron detection performance. The Stacked Domino® platform was developed to meet these demands, offering a modular, solid-state architecture capable of achieving 50% thermal neutron detection efficiency. Why the Stacked Domino® Matters for Instrument Designers The Stacked Domino® builds on the proven performance of the original Domino® module by extending its design into a scalable detection platform. Designers can increase detection efficiency and coverage by adding the number of Dominos required to meet specific performance targets. Each module functions as an independent digital detector operating with low-voltage biasing. This eliminates the need for high-voltage power supplies, gas handling systems, and analog pulse-shaping electronics, simplifying system architecture from the outset. For system integrators, this translates into simpler circuit design, reduced component count, and a smaller physical footprint. The result is compact neutron detection systems that are rugged, field-ready, and well suited for low-power or battery-operated platforms. View Product Page Design Flexibility Through Modular Architecture Neutron detection requirements vary widely depending on system size, sensitivity, and measurement geometry. The Stacked Domino® provides a configurable platform that allows designers to adapt detector layouts to their application needs. Stacked vertically to increase thermal neutron detection efficiency. Tiled horizontally to expand detection area for larger instruments. Combined in multi-detector arrays to support custom geometries and specialized environments. Integrated into handheld devices where low power consumption and compact size are critical. Because each module outputs a digital signal, data acquisition systems can be streamlined. Designers can eliminate pulse shaping and complex analog front-end electronics, reducing development time and simplifying multi-detector system integration. Applications That Benefit from Designer-Level Integration The Stacked Domino® is engineered for seamless integration into modern radiation detection systems across a wide range of applications, including: Portable or wearable neutron detectors requiring small size and low power draw. Custom laboratory instruments for neutron generator characterization or beamline diagnostics. Embedded industrial sensors used in process monitoring or environmental measurement. Homeland security and emergency response devices where ruggedness and efficiency are essential. Handheld multi-sensor radiation tools that demand compact solid-state neutron detection. The platform is particularly valuable for designs constrained by power, space, or weight—areas where traditional Helium-3 or scintillator detector assemblies are difficult to integrate. Efficiency Considerations for System Optimization Radiation instrument designers must balance detection efficiency with system size, power consumption, and overall complexity. A single Domino® module typically offers 50% thermal neutron detection efficiency. By stacking modules vertically, designers can approach this efficiency while increasing detection area through additional Dominos. This scalability allows performance to be matched precisely to instrument requirements without over-engineering the system or adding unnecessary mass. Final Thoughts The Stacked Domino® provides radiation instrument designers with a modern, modular, and flexible neutron detection platform. Its solid-state design, low-voltage operation, and scalable geometry reduce integration complexity while delivering the performance required for advanced neutron detection applications. Whether developing compact handheld instruments or multi-detector research systems, the Stacked Domino® offers a practical pathway to higher performance with less complexity. References Rotunda Scientific Technologies. (n.d.). Domino® neutron detector: Product specifications. https://www.rotundascitech.com/products/domino-neutron-detector Rotunda Scientific Technologies. (n.d.). Stacked Domino® neutron detector overview. https://www.rotundascitech.com/ Rotunda Scientific Technologies. (n.d.). MSND® microstructured semiconductor neutron detection technology. https://www.rotundascitech.com/ Nuclear-power.com. (n.d.). Thermal neutron detection. https://www.nuclear-power.com/ U.S. Department of Energy. (2011). Helium-3 supply and neutron detection alternatives. https://www.energy.gov/ *AI assistance was used in generating this explainer text.
