Applications
Neutron imaging has potential for studying so-called soft materials, as small changes in the location of hydrogen within a material can produce highly visible changes in a neutron image.[1]
Neutrons also offer unique capabilities for research in magnetic materials. The neutron's lack of electric charge means there is no need to correct magnetic measurements for errors caused by stray electric fields and charges. Polarized neutron beams orient neutron spins in one direction. This allows measurement of the strength and characteristics of a material's magnetism.[1]
Neutron-based instruments have the ability to probe inside metal objects — such as fuel cells, batteries and engines to study their internal structure. Neutron instruments are also uniquely sensitive to lighter elements that are important in biological materials.[