Large-scale scientific facility at China Advanced Research Reactor for neutron scattering

Abstract

As a complementary role to X-rays, neutrons provide a unique, non-destructive method. Neutron scattering techniques have been widely applied to the determination of the structural details and the dynamics of atomic arrangements in materials and matters. Large-scale scientific facility of neutron scattering has played an important role in basic research and industry. This paper reviews the outstanding characteristics of neutron probe, the development status of neutron scattering facilities abroad, and especially the progress of the first phase of Neutron Scattering Project at China Advanced Research Reactor (CARR). By now, ten instruments, including a High Resolution Powder Diffractometer (HRPD), a High Intensity Powder Diffractometer (HIPD), a Residual Stress Diffractometer (RSD), a texture diffractometer (TD), a four circle diffractometer (FC), two Triple Axis Spectrometers (TAS), a reflectometer (RF), a Small Angle Neutron Scattering instrument (SANS) and a High Frame-rate Neutron Imaging Test Station (HFNIT) have been constructed in cooperation with Peking University, Institute of Chemistry of Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Institute of Physics of CAS, Juelich Center in Germany and the partner from Sweden. The construction of them has been completed and they are under commissioning. CARR has run more than 200 hours for adjusting and optimizing the instruments and some promising experimental results have been attained. As one of the most powerful high-flux reactor neutron sources in the world, CARR will ensure the development and application of neutron scattering in China.