Beam-optical component for influencing radiation depending on its wavelength spectrum

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

The invention describes a beam-optical component designed to influence neutron radiation based on its wavelength (or energy) spectrum. Using silicon wafer channels with reflective coatings (like super mirrors), the component selectively reflects neutrons of desired energies while absorbing those above a certain energy threshold using absorber layers. This design allows for efficient filtering of neutron beams by energy and spin without altering the direction of the beam, and offers both polarized and non-polarized output options in a compact device.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Neutron beam experiments in research reactors and facilities for material science, condensed matter physics, and structural investigations.
• Neutron reflectometers or diffractometers that require suppression of high-energy (short wavelength) or unwanted polarized neutron components for accurate measurements.
• Applications in neutron imaging and tomography where controlled neutron energy distribution is critical.
• Use in compact, modular experimental setups where beam conditioning and polarization are needed without large space or complex shielding requirements.
• Replacement of traditional monochromators and beryllium crystal-based filters with more compact, efficient, and easily reconfigurable devices.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Precisely selects and filters neutron energies, removing unwanted higher-energy components and higher order reflections.
• Maintains the direction of the neutron beam, simplifying alignment and downstream optics.
• Can function as both an energy selector (filter) and a beam polarizer, enabling flexible experimental configurations.
• Very compact size, enabling easy installation close to neutron sources or within existing shielding.
• No need for additional radiation shielding since unwanted neutrons are absorbed within the component, reducing exposure and ancillary infrastructure.
• Enables switching between polarized and unpolarized neutron output without major experimental reconfiguration.
• Increases the efficiency and reliability of neutron experiments by reducing background and unwanted signal contributions.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The component has neutron conductive layers i.e. channels (K1.1), with walls that are provided with beam reflecting layers (R1.1, R1.2) e.g. super mirrors. The conductive layers exhibit length in a flow direction of neutrons (N1.1, N1.2, N1.3, N2.1, N2.2), so that the neutrons below energy limit are reflected at one of the beam reflecting layers. The neutrons above the energy limit are transmitted by the beam reflecting layer and are absorbed by neutron absorbing layers (A1.1, A1.2) that are arranged in the flow direction of the neutrons. The conductive layers consist of silicon wafers.