Lab-Based Small Angle Neutron Scattering Instrument

C53-17e-271133Light, X-ray and neutron scattering experiments are widely used for materials studies, particularly biochemical and pharmacological research. Scattering reveals size, shape, and cohesion between macromolecules in fluid solution. National facilities are fully equipped with X-ray and neutron scattering beamlines, and many laboratories have their own lab-based X-ray systems. However, no lab-based neutron scattering system currently exist. The challenge has been the creation of a suitably powerful lab-based neutron source, coupled to a compact small angle neutron scattering setup, an efficient detector, and time-of-flight protocol. We propose to design, fabricate, and create a laboratory small angle neutron scattering (LaSANS) instrument, which combines a compact, yet powerful lab-based, Adelphi Technology, Inc. thermal neutron generator with a focusing collimator, an efficient, position-sensitive detector, and using a compact scattering geometry. This first-ever lab-based, small angle neutron scattering system will be designed and fabricated by a former NIST neutron scientist with over 20 years’ experience. We have exceptional resources, including a neutron imaging system, to support the LaSANS instrument testing and development program. The workplan starts with a custom designed focusing collimator and a position-sensitive neutron event detector, and then benchmark experiments with the neutron imaging instrument. The LaSANS performance is assessed with 298 K and 77 K moderators, both 3-D printed for beam focusing. The neutron generator will be operated in pulsed mode enabling time-of-flight data collection. The LaSANS instrument performance will reviewed by at least twenty-nine potential customers. Neutron scattering is a critical component of polymer and pharmacology structure optimization. While US national facilities provide access to neutron scattering experimentation, the overload at these facilities strongly indicates the need for lab-based systems similar to the commercially available X-ray scattering instruments.