Table-top neutron source for characterization and calibration of dark matter detectors

A table-top plasma focus device is shown to be an ideal neutron source for the calibration and characterization of dark matter detectors and has been optimized to produce a maximum yield of 2.0×107 neutrons per shot. The interaction of energetic neutrons is similar to that expected from weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs)—a favored candidate for the dominant component of dark matter in the universe. The weak interaction of a neutron with liquid xenon gas was measured in a prototype xenon two-phase detector. We have developed a detector system in which both the primary scintillation and ionization from the initial interaction can be detected. Both measurements are critical for identifying WIMP’s.