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Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Neutron Radiography and Computed Tomography of Biological Systems at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory's High Flux Isotope Reactor
Published on: May 7, 2021
A route to the brightest possible neutron source?
Andrew Taylor1, Mike Dunne, Steve Bennington
1Council for the Central Laboratory of the Research Councils, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Chilton, Didcot, Oxon OX11 0QX, UK. andrew.taylor@rl.ac.uk
Merging inertial fusion energy with neutron scattering science could create ultra-powerful neutron sources. This advancement promises a significant leap in performance for neutron scattering applications within 20-30 years.
Area of Science:
- Neutron scattering science
- Inertial fusion energy
Background:
- Neutron source brightness has seen limited advancement (10x) over 40 years, unlike synchrotron and laser science.
- Current neutron sources limit the scope and impact of neutron scattering applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of inertial fusion energy for developing next-generation neutron sources.
- To propose a merger of inertial fusion energy and neutron scattering science for a significant performance step-change.
Main Methods:
- Reviewing the potential of inertial fusion energy for neutron source development.
- Calculating the projected performance of a fusion-based neutron source.
Main Results:
- A neutron source three orders of magnitude more powerful than existing facilities is calculable.
- This advancement is achievable on a 20- to 30-year time scale.
Conclusions:
- A merger with inertial fusion energy offers a pathway to dramatically enhance neutron source power.
- Such a powerful neutron source would revolutionize neutron scattering science.
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