Detector Seminar

Detectors for Neutron Scattering Science at the European Spallation Source

by Richard Hall-Wilton (ESS - European Spallation Source (SE))

Europe/Zurich
Description

The European Spallation Source (ESS), a next generation neutron spallation source, is presently about 70% of the way through construction in Lund, Sweden. The current status of the construction will be shown. The first 15 instruments have been selected from conceptual proposals submitted by groups from around Europe. These instruments present numerous challenges for detector technology in the post Helium-3 crisis era, which is the default choice for neutron detectors for instruments built until today. The extreme instantaneous rates expected across the ESS instrument suite present a further challenge for the detectors. A new generation of source requires a new generation of detector technologies to fully exploit the opportunities that this source provides. These challenges are outlined. 

The neutron scattering instruments themselves are under construction. The baseline detector requirements are presented. The strategy outline as to how these requirements are being tackled by is shown, as well as the associated developments, which are nearing completion. 

In particular for ESS, over half of the detectors will be based upon thin film converters of Boron-10 Carbide. The highlights of the developments so far over the past decade are shown, including those done through collaboration with CERN. In particular, examples of how these have been tested to determine that scientific requirements are met are shown, based upon demonstrating key aspects of scientific performance. Additionally for the first time in neutron scattering, simulation of detailed detector and instrumental performance has been used to refine and determine the detector design. The state of the art of these simulation techniques is shown as well as future prospects. 

Zoom connection details are given in the invitation email.

Organised by

Burkhard Schmidt (EP-DT)