Spallasjonskilder

Spallasjonskilder, also known as spallation sources, are facilities that produce neutrons for scientific research. They function by accelerating protons to very high energies and then directing this beam onto a heavy metal target, typically made of tungsten or mercury. When the high-energy protons strike the target, they collide with the atomic nuclei, causing a process called spallation. This process effectively knocks out or "spalls" neutrons from the nuclei.

These released neutrons are then moderated, a process that slows them down to energies suitable for various experiments. The neutrons produced at spallasjonskilder are highly versatile and can be used to probe the structure and dynamics of matter at the atomic and molecular level. This makes them invaluable tools in a wide range of scientific disciplines, including materials science, condensed matter physics, chemistry, biology, and nuclear physics.

Spallasjonskilder offer distinct advantages over other neutron sources, such as nuclear reactors. They can provide pulsed beams of neutrons, which are useful for certain types of time-of-flight measurements. Furthermore, they can be operated more safely and with less long-lived radioactive waste compared to some reactor designs. The development and operation of these advanced facilities represent a significant investment in scientific infrastructure, enabling cutting-edge research and technological innovation.