The next generation neutron detector for the studies of exotic nuclei

The development of radioactive ion beam facilities which can create very neutron rich nuclei necessitates detectors with improved neutron energy resolution and neutron selection. Exotic nuclei near the neutron drip line are far from beta decay stability and become more likely to undergo beta delayed neutron emission processes. The Neutron dEtector with Tracking (NEXT) will be a high resolution neutron detector designed as neutron-gamma discriminating-plastic scintillator coupled to a segmented position readout. The NEXT configuration will be based on ToF measurements with improved time resolution and interaction localization. Recent advancements in PSD plastic scintillators as well as position sensitive detectors are the foundation of the compact design of the NEXT detector. A segmented detector prototype has been made from optically separated bars of EJ-276 (Eljen Technology) coupled to a position sensitive PMT. Results from preliminary time of flight measurements and ongoing simulations of the position dependent detector response will be presented.