Design and Performance of Neutron Detector N*

The design of the N* Detector (``Neutron Sandwich Transmuter/Activation-$\gamma $ Radiator'') and its response to neutrons are described. The N* is a high efficiency plastic-scintillation detector with sensitivity to neutrons in a wide energy range and multi-hit information. The device consists of a stack of plastic scintillator slabs (Saint Gobain BC-408) alternating with thin radiator films (PDMS), which are loaded with 0.5{\%} (by weight) of Gd. The stack is coupled to a photomultiplier tube. The scintillator plays the dual role of a neutron moderator and a $\gamma $-radiation detector. Scintillation light is produced in response to both, the prompt moderation process and the delayed emission of Gd-capture $\gamma $-rays. The design and experimental results with respect to light response, energy and time resolution, and detection efficiency will be discussed, along with comparison to Monte Carlo simulations.