The United States has struck a significant advancement in the realm of neutron science.
Scientists at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have recently completed a groundbreaking demonstration that involved running a neutron production system for an impressive 1,250 hours using a 1.7-megawatt proton beam.
This remarkable feat underscores the U.S.’s prowess in retaining its leadership position in neutron science.
The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS), a formidable facility at ORNL, was pivotal in achieving this milestone.
This facility utilizes short pulses of protons aimed at a mercury target, creating intense neutron beams through spallation—a process that is as complex as it is ingenious.
This demonstration not only highlights the capabilities of the SNS but also reaffirms its status as one of the world’s most potent neutron production systems.
The significance of producing neutrons on a vast scale cannot be overstated.
Neutrons, known for their ability to penetrate substances and expose their internal structures, are indispensable in studying and developing complex materials, enhancing energy storage, and progressing medical research.
Jens Dilling, the associate laboratory director for ORNL’s Neutron Sciences Directorate, hailed the prolonged operation of this advanced facility as extraordinary, asserting its critical role in fostering future neutron science discoveries.
Producing neutrons efficiently involves overcoming challenges related to high-energy collisions and ensuring the stability of materials during these interactions.
This is where the SNS’s 1.7-megawatt proton beam comes into play, resolving many issues associated with neutron production by using a stable steel-mercury target.
By doing so, the facility can generate a larger volume of neutrons over extended periods, which can then be applied to closely examine materials—a technique known as neutron scattering.
The journey to this achievement wasn’t without its hurdles.
The Proton Power Upgrade (PPU) project, initiated in 2018, aimed at enhancing the power of SNS’s proton beam.
Mark Champion, the PPU Project Director, lauded the tenacity and ingenuity of the teams, which realized the project’s completion ahead of schedule and under budget, despite the setbacks posed by the global pandemic.
Looking ahead, ORNL has plans to further amplify its capabilities. Initially, the Proton Power Upgrade focused on ramping the beam power to 2.0 megawatts at the First Target Station (FTS).
As part of their expansion vision, they have introduced a 2.0-megawatt-capable target and initiated provisions for a new facility referred to as the Second Target Station (STS), expected to extend SNS’s beam power capability to 2.8 megawatts.
ORNL’s neutron facilities, including SNS and the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR), serve as vital DOE Office of Science user facilities, managed by UT-Battelle.
As they forge ahead, these sites collectively enhance the nation’s neutron science capabilities, ensuring the U.S. continues to wield unparalleled global influence in this field.
Drew Winder from the SNS Development and Engineering group commended the meticulous planning and execution that have positioned ORNL to push the boundaries of neutron science far beyond initial expectations.
The confluence of the upgraded SNS and HFIR forms an unbeatable trio in America’s quest for scientific advancement, securing its leading status by harnessing innovation and expertise.
As these facilities venture into this new phase, they aim to evolve the landscape of neutron research and deliver breakthroughs that address pressing challenges in energy, security, and transportation.