Neutron sources for basic physics, and their applications

This book provides a coherent and comprehensive overview of the whole field of neutron source development ranging from basic nuclear physics to the important applications of nuclear data. It describes the main sources currently in use for nuclear data measurements and neutron irradiations in the low and intermediate neutron energy range. The neutron sources are classified according to the technique by which the neutrons are produced. Each chapter of this book contains the following; a description of a particular category of neutron source, including the source characteristics, and the neutron production technique; a thorough discussion of the principal source components and of individual design concepts realized in various laboratories; and an illustration of typical source parameters and characteristic applications. Whilst particular emphasis is placed on the applications of neutron sources in nuclear energy, applications in biology, medicine, materials science and industry are also discussed in detail. It also includes an extensive bibliography of approximately 900 references, including such specialised areas as high energies, high intensities and fast neutrons for fusion research or radiotherapy