Imaging

X-ray imaging is a well-established technique used for non-destructive testing on many specimens. The field of applications for this valuable technique has been further expanded by using neutrons in radiography and tomography.

Neutrons have a high penetration depth for many materials, which are practically opaque for X-rays. Furthermore, an excellent and even isotope-specific contrast is achieved for many light materials. This fact renders neutron radiography and tomography powerful tools complementary to X-ray imaging techniques, which have grown tremendously in popularity in non-destructive testing applications. Furthermore, the magnetic moment of a neutron gives access to new methods, such as the spatially resolved investigation of magnetic structures and fields.

With its two instruments for neutron imaging, MLZ covers a very broad range of applications:

• The instrument NECTAR provides fast fission neutrons that can penetrate even large objects. Furthermore, it also provides thermal neutrons, which can be used to obtain good contrast for medium-sized objects.
• For the highest sensitivity and spatial resolution on small objects, cold neutrons are available at ANTARES.