Compact Accelerator-driven Neutron Sources (CANS)

In addition to X-ray techniques, analytical methods based on neutron beams are becoming increasingly important in research and technology – in energy technology, for example, but also in medicine. The availability of such neutron radiation is limited, however, because it can only be produced at large-scale research facilities such as nuclear research reactors or accelerator-based spallation sources. A group of Helmholtz researchers is therefore working to develop compact accelerator-driven neutron sources (CANS) that are lighter and cheaper to operate and could therefore be used decentrally on company or hospital premises. The best way of achieving this is being studied primarily at one of the beamlines of the Ion Beam Centre (IBC) at the HZDR - Helmholtz Center Dresden Rosendorf.