Neutron diffraction measurements on a reference metallic sample with a high-efficiency GEM side-on $^{10}$B-based thermal neutron detector

The upgraded version of the GEM side-on thermal neutron detector was successfully tested in a neutron diffraction experiment on a reference sample using the INES diffractometer at the ISIS spallation neutron source, UK. The performance of the new $^{10}$B$_4$C-based detector is compared to that of a standard $^3$He tube, operating at the instrument as a part of the detectors assembly. The results show that the upgraded detector has a better resolution and an efficiency of the same order of magnitude of a $^3$He-based detector.