Neutron Detection Equipment Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Lithium Large-Area Neutron Detector, Fast Neutron Detectors, Scintillation Neutron Detectors and Semiconductor Neutron Detectors), By Application (Nuclear Power, Aerospace & Defense, Urban Detection Networks and Others), Regional Insights and Forecast From 2025 To 2035

• 

  Request a Free sample to learn more about this report

NEUTRON DETECTION EQUIPMENT MARKET OVERVIEW

The global neutron detection equipment market stood at USD 0.14 billion in 2025 and is set to rise to USD 0.15 billion in 2026, maintaining a strong growth trajectory to reach USD 0.23 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 3.4%.

Neutron detectors consist of materials that interact with neutrons. Although the principle reaction mechanisms of neutrons with matter are limited, the options for detection media are quite numerous. Detectors can consist of solid, liquid, or gas-filled media. Beside the detection mechanism, there is one major challenge for all types of neutron detectors.

They all need to be insensible to gamma ray emission or at least require an implemented technique to discriminate between neutron and background gamma ray events, as neutron detection often takes place in a mixed radiation field.

KEY FINDINGS

COVID-19 IMPACT

Imposed Restrictions in the Economy Resulted in Decline in the Market 

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering with the market experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden rise in CAGR is attributable to market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The COVID-19 problem has had an impact on the global economy, causing a strict lockdown and a halt to day-to-day activities in every industry. With the limits imposed by the government, the panic scenario has had a negative influence on the industries. This has resulted in a market drop as well; there was a direct and indirect impact from numerous sectors producing Neutron Detection Equipment. With the revival of the market following COVID-19, we are seeing a recovery of the market where the blanks are restructured with product innovation and investments into R&D activities to develop advanced technologies to meet advanced requirements, which will project a proposed increase in the neutron detection equipment market share in the forecasted period.

LATEST TRENDS

Increasing Emphasis on Nuclear Security Driving Innovation in the Market

One major trend in the neutron detection equipment market is the increasing emphasis on nuclear security, which is driving innovation in detection technologies. The growing global concern over the proliferation of nuclear materials and the potential for illicit nuclear activities. Governments, regulatory bodies, and organizations are placing a higher priority on safeguarding against nuclear threats, results in a heightened demand for more advanced and sensitive neutron detection equipment that can accurately identify and quantify nuclear materials. This demand, in turn, is fueling research and development efforts in the industry, leading to the creation of more sophisticated and efficient neutron detection technologies that are better equipped to address emerging security challenges.

• According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), over 1,350 neutron detection systems were deployed in 2023 at nuclear facilities and border security checkpoints across North America, marking a significant increase from 950 systems in 2020.

• According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), 62% of member states upgraded their neutron detection technologies in 2023, integrating advanced scintillation detectors to enhance nuclear material monitoring.

Request a Free sample to learn more about this report

NEUTRON DETECTION EQUIPMENT MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on type, market is classified as lithium large-area neutron detector, fast neutron detectors, scintillation neutron detectors and semiconductor neutron detectors.

By Application

Based on application, market is classified as nuclear power, aerospace and defense, urban detection networks and others.

DRIVING FACTORS

Expanding Nuclear Energy Generation Initiatives to Drive Market Growth 

One of the primary causes behind neutron detection equipment market growth is the expanding initiatives in nuclear energy generation. This expansion is driven by several factors, including the increasing global demand for clean and sustainable energy sources. As nations seek to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change, nuclear power emerges as a viable option due to its low carbon emissions and reliable energy output. Additionally, energy security concerns and the need for a stable and consistent power supply further incentivize the development and expansion of nuclear energy projects. Governments and private entities are investing in new nuclear power plants, as well as the refurbishment and modernization of existing ones, to meet growing energy needs. As a result the operation of nuclear facilities demands stringent safety protocols and constant monitoring to prevent accidents and maintain security. As the number of nuclear reactors and facilities increases, there is a parallel surge in the demand for neutron detection equipment. This equipment plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of nuclear operations by detecting and measuring neutron radiation, which is essential for monitoring nuclear reactions, identifying potential abnormalities, and safeguarding against unauthorized access or nuclear material diversion. Consequently, the expanding nuclear energy generation initiatives are a driving force behind the growth of the market, prompting continuous innovation and the development of advanced technologies to support the nuclear energy sector's requirements.

Heightened Concerns about Nuclear Proliferation to Bolster Market 

Another significant factor driving the growth of the market is the heightened global concerns about nuclear proliferation. These concerns stem from the persistent threat of the spread of nuclear weapons and materials, which has become a prominent issue in international security. The fear of rogue nations, terrorist groups, or individuals acquiring nuclear capabilities has led to increased vigilance among governments, international organizations, and security agencies. Consequently, there is a pressing need for robust nuclear detection measures to identify and prevent illicit nuclear activities, secure nuclear materials, and enforce non-proliferation agreements. The effect of these heightened concerns about nuclear proliferation is evident in the market's growth. The market experiences a surge in demand for advanced neutron detection equipment capable of accurately identifying and quantifying nuclear materials. Such equipment is vital for verifying compliance with international agreements, safeguarding nuclear facilities, ports, and borders, and ensuring that nuclear materials are not diverted for unauthorized purposes. The urgency to address these security challenges drives market expansion, prompting continuous innovation and development in the field of neutron detection technology. As a result, the market is bolstered by the need to enhance global security measures and protect against the proliferation of nuclear weapons and materials.

• According to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), 78% of nuclear power plants incorporated high-efficiency neutron detectors in 2023 to strengthen radiation safety protocols.

• According to the European Commission – Joint Research Centre (JRC), the installation of neutron detection equipment increased to 420 units in 2023 across EU research laboratories to comply with stricter safety regulations.

RESTRAINNG FACTORS

Complex Regulatory Framework and Stringent Export Controls to Disrupt Market Growth

A significant restraining factor in the market is the complex regulatory framework and stringent export controls governing the trade and use of neutron detection equipment. The impact of a complex regulatory framework is manifested in the various national and international regulations, licensing requirements, and compliance standards that govern the production, distribution, and use of neutron detection equipment. These regulations often vary from one country to another, leading to a challenging and time-consuming process for manufacturers and suppliers to navigate the legal and compliance landscape. This complex regulatory environment can hinder market growth in several ways. Firstly, it may lead to delays and increased costs associated with obtaining the necessary licenses and approvals for the production and export of neutron detection equipment. Additionally, the stringent export controls in place to prevent the proliferation of sensitive technologies can restrict the global distribution of these products, limiting market access and potential sales opportunities. Consequently, the neutron detection equipment market faces barriers to entry, which can deter some manufacturers and investors, and may limit the availability and accessibility of these critical security technologies in certain regions.

• According to the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), 34% of facilities reported limitations due to the high cost of neutron-sensitive materials such as helium-3 and lithium-6.

• According to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), 29% of small-scale research institutions experienced operational challenges due to calibration complexities and detector maintenance requirements.

• Request a Free sample to learn more about this report

•  

NEUTRON DETECTION EQUIPMENT MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

North America to Hold Major Share Market owing to High Investments on Researches

Based on region, the global neutron detection equipment market is classified into North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa, where North America is dominating the global market and is expected to dominate during the forecast owing to its significant nuclear power industry and security concerns, Government agencies and private organizations invest in advanced neutron detection technologies to meet stringent security requirements. The need to secure nuclear facilities, ports, and borders against the potential threat of nuclear proliferation and terrorism.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Financial Players to Contribute Towards Expansion of Market

The neutron detection equipment market is extremely competitive and consists of various global and regional players. Global market is majorly driven by the top manufacturers, which holds higher share of the market. Major players are involved in strategizing various plans such as mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, introduction of new and enhanced products, along with joint ventures. The report is an extensive research of a list of market players who contribute towards the expansion of the market. The information is a collusion of latest technological developments, trends, production lines mergers and acquisitions, market study and others. Other factors such as regional wise analysis and segment wise analysis are also considered to understand the market share, product growth, revenue growth and others during the forecasted period.

• Rhombus Power – According to the DOE, Rhombus Power deployed over 180 neutron detection units in 2023, serving nuclear energy and border security applications.

• Arktis Radiation Detectors – According to the Swiss Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate (ENSI), Arktis provided more than 120 advanced neutron detectors to research and industrial facilities in 2023, enhancing radiation monitoring and safety compliance.

List of Top Neutron Detection Equipment Companies

• Rhombus Power (U.S.)
• Arktis Radiation Detectors (Switzerland)
• Silverside Detectors (U.S.)
• Leidos (U.S.)
• Symetrica Ltd (U.K.)
• Mirion Technologies (U.S.)
• Scientifica International (U.K.)
• LND (U.S.)
• Proportional Technologies (U.S.)
• Kromek Group (U.K.)

REPORT COVERAGE

The SWOT analysis and information on future developments are covered in the study. The research report includes a study of a number of factors that promote market growth. This section also covers the range of numerous market categories and applications that could potentially affect the market in the future. The specifics are based on current trends and historical turning points. The state of the market's components and its potential growth areas over the following years. The paper discusses market segmentation information, including subjective and quantitative research, as well as the impact of financial and strategy opinions. Additionally, the research disseminates data on national and regional assessments that take into account the dominant forces of supply and demand that are influencing market growth. The competitive environment, including market shares of significant competitors, is detailed in the report along with fresh research methodology and player strategies for the anticipated time.