The neutron source

In most hybrid reactor concepts, the external neutrons are provided by the interaction of accelerated charged particles with matter. The most widely proposed systems use high-energy protons. A few other propositions resort to electrons or deuterons as well as muons as originators of neutron — producing reactions. Because of the importance of high-energy protons we discuss this case more thoroughly.

6.1 Interaction of protons with matter

Energetic protons and nuclei interact with matter mostly by collisions with electrons. These lead to progressive energy loss.