Spallation neutron sources

This report presents information on existing and planned spallation neutron sources which has been compiled to provide a basis for the evaluation of the feasibility and expected performance of a continuous spallation neutron source. Some relations are given, describing the neutron yield, proton range in targets, heat deposition and related quantities. Most of the facilities so far existing or under construction are synchrotron-driven pulsed sources. Therefore some space has been devoted to the peculiar problems associated with the pulsed nature of these sources in particular as far as target and moderator design is concerned. The advantages and disadvantages of pulsed spallation neutron sources relative to a reactor are reviewed. Some of the major advantages such as noncriticality of the setup and the possibility of obtaining a high neutron flux without using highly enriched uranium would also be retained when a spallation neutron source would be operated continuously. On the other hand, the experimental possibilities would be equivalent or even superior to those at a reactor. No considerations have been given to problems associated with the accelerator for such a source or to the expected cost of such a facility. (orig.)