A half century of radioisotope neutron sources in China

Near 50 years history of the development of radioisotope neutron sources in China is briefly reviewed. The structure design, preparing technology and production status of routine neutron sources including 210Po Be sources, 210Po mock fission sources, 241Am Be sources, 238Pu Be sources, 252Cf spontaneous fission sources and other special shape neutron sources are summarized. In addition, the prospects of development on radioisotope neutron source in China are predicted from the needs of nuclear power construction, oil well logging, neutron moisture gauge and neutron brachytherapy.