In-Core Experiments
Group

Boron Neutron Capture
Cancer Therapy (BNCT)

Trace Element
Analysis

Neutron Scattering

Neutron Radiography

NTD Silicon Doping

Neutron Scattering and Spectroscopy

Neutron scattering and spectroscopy are among the pre-eminent tools for studying the structure and dynamics of matter at the atomic and molecular scale. The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) facility under construction at Oak Ridge National Lab is widely anticipated to revolutionize the field.

The proposed MIT-NRL diffractometer consists of beam conditioning equipment, a sample rotation stage, detector assembly and computerized control and data acquisition systems. It allows for a collimated variable-energy beam of neutrons to illuminate a sample from any orientation. The scattered beam is then detected and analyzed. Our research emphasizes development of novel focusing, polarization, and imaging methodologies. The SNS in combination with novel neutron optics will enable construction of fundamentally new imaging instruments.

We envision the following programs:

• Education and training for graduate and undergraduate students in basic concepts of neutron scattering;
• Enhanced production of new materials and single crystals by allowing rapid evaluation by neutron scattering;
• Development of novel neutron optics components;
• Conceptual development of a new imaging instrument.

The construction of the new diffractometer is supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. DMR-0526754.