Compact neutron collimator

The invention is about a collimating structure made by alternating a material capable of absorbing neutrons, with areas of air or void. The object, small in size, can be exploited in the industrial field in order to carry out non-destructive analyses using neutron beams.

How does it work?

The structure of the object, which when viewed in section resembles a chessboard, is made up of “empty” channels, filled with air, alternated with “full” channels, made of Lithium, Boron or other materials that can absorb neutrons. In this way, the beam is collimated over short distances. This extends the possibility of carrying out non-destructive neutron investigations, such as radiography and tomography, even in small and medium-scale plants, effectively amplifying the accessibility thereof.

Applications

• Industrial radiography and tomography in the biomedical, automotive, mechanical and aerospace sectors;
• Analysis of materials;
• Neutron scattering studies;
• Analysis for archaeometry;
• Analysis for forensic science.

Advantages

• More accessible neutron investigations;
• Reduction of the spaces necessary for the required investigations;
• Use of less intense neutron sources;
• Reduction of the costs for the use of the infrastructures.