Speaker
Description
The neutron technology development station (NTDS) is China’s first time-of-flight cold and thermal neutron test beamline based on the China spallation neutron source. Positioned as a neutron technology incubator, it supports diverse neutron beam test research in areas such as materials, devices, methodologies, and metrology. In terms of physical design, the beamline employs a curved neutron guide combined with a T0 chopper, together with a long flight path (up to 35 m), which significantly suppresses prompt high-energy neutron and gamma ray backgrounds. Three experimental terminals are planned: a single-crystal orientation terminal, a reflectometry terminal, and a multi-functional terminal. On March 5, 2026, the first neutron beam was successfully obtained, marking the start of commissioning. Preliminary results show that with a proton beam power of 185 kW on target, the neutron flux at a distance of 24.2 m from the moderator reaches approximately 4.2 × 10⁶ n·cm⁻²·s⁻¹, with a neutron wavelength range of about 0.5–20 Å (0.2–300 meV). The reflectometry terminal has been tested using a standard nickel film sample, yielding reflectivity curves consistent with expectations. The beamline is now in trial operation and is expected to serve as a key platform to advance neutron technology development for China Spallation Neutron Source.