Development of a Versatile Array of Neutron Detectors at Low Energy*

The development of radioactive ion beams at the Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility at ORNL allows the study of many neutron- and proton-rich nuclei. Proton transfer with (d,n) reactions is an excellent tool for measuring single-proton strength in neutron-rich nuclei near the Z=28 and 50 shell closures. On the proton-rich side (d,n) reactions on $^{56}$Ni and $^{25}$Al are relevant for nuclear astrophysics. We also propose measurements of beta decay properties in nuclei near $^{78}$Ni and $^{132}$Sn to determine beta decay lifetimes and branching ratios. The Versatile Array of Neutron Detectors at Low Energy (VANDLE) is a new array of plastic scintillator bars under development at ORNL. The array is highly modular allowing the configuration of the individual elements to be optimized for particular experimental requirements. We propose one configuration optimized for beta-delayed neutron emission studies and one optimized for (d,n) reactions. The scientific motivation and details of the testing and design of the array will be presented.