Masatoshi Arai
Published: 2013-11-22
Total Pages: 108
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In this chapter, neutron experimental techniques are described. The chapter covers the basics of neutron scattering, neutron source characteristics, diffraction techniques, inelastic neutron scattering, instruments for semi-macroscopic structure analysis, detectors, optics, choppers, and some concepts for instrument design. Techniques for both steady and pulsed sources are described, with more emphasis on the latter in view of the recent worldwide trend toward pulsed sources, generally pulsed spallation sources. The source character, even within the class of pulsed sources, has a significant influence on instrument design. Inelasticity effects in the total scattering technique are clearly specified in the chapter. Some details of chopper instruments, including resolution effects, are described, since this class of instruments has recently received considerable innovative development and use over a wide range of science. Recent developments in scintillation detectors are discussed as an alternative technology to more conventional 3He detectors. Optical components are becoming more and more important not only for neutron transport but also for background reduction. Neutron spin-echo techniques are presented as an example of the exploitation of polarized neutrons.