neutronimaging

Neutron imaging is a non-destructive technique that uses neutrons to probe the internal structure of materials. Similar to X-ray imaging, it creates images by measuring the differential attenuation of neutrons as they pass through a sample. However, neutrons interact with matter differently than X-rays. Neutrons are uncharged particles and their interaction with atomic nuclei is based on nuclear forces, making them sensitive to light elements like hydrogen, lithium, and boron, which are relatively transparent to X-rays. They are also highly sensitive to isotopes.

The process typically involves a neutron source, a collimator to create a defined beam, the sample to be imaged, and a detector that records the transmitted neutrons. The intensity of the transmitted neutron beam varies depending on the material's composition and density, allowing for the visualization of internal features. Different neutron imaging techniques exist, including radiography (2D projection images) and tomography (3D reconstruction).

Neutron imaging is valuable in various fields. In materials science, it can reveal internal defects, porosity, and the distribution of elements within composites and metals without damaging the sample. In archaeology, it can be used to examine delicate artifacts, revealing hidden layers or internal structures. It also finds applications in industrial inspection, such as checking for moisture content in building materials or inspecting turbine blades. The ability to image light elements and distinguish isotopes makes neutron imaging a complementary technique to X-ray imaging, offering unique insights into material structures.