ELIGANT-TN -- ELI Gamma Above Neutron Threshold: The Thermal Neutron setup

Abstract: Here we present the thermal neutron counter from the ELI Gamma Above Neutron Threshold setup recently implemented at the Extreme Light Infrastructure - Nuclear Physics. The main goals of the detector array are presented, as well as the mechanical design, electronics, and the performance of the detectors. In addition, we have performed Geant4 and MCNP simulations monoenergetic neutrons and measurements with typical neutron sources. Finally, we show the performance of the array as a whole and outline the analysis procedure for experimental measurements by reproducing the $${}<sup>{13}\mathrm{C}(\alpha,\mathrm{n}_{0}){}<sup>{16}\mathrm{O}$$ cross-section branching ratios.