Demonstration of Neutron Phase Imaging Based on Talbot-Lau Interferometer at Compact Neutron Source RANS

Neutron imaging based on a compact Talbot-Lau interferometer was demonstrated using the RIKEN accelerator-driven compact neutron source (RANS). A compact Talbot-Lau interferometer consisting of gadolinium absorption gratings and a silicon phase grating was constructed and connected to the RANS. Because of pulsed thermal neutrons from the RANS and a position-sensitive detector equipped with time-of-flight (TOF) analysis, moire interference patterns generated using the interferometer were extracted at a TOF range around the design wavelength (2.37 angstrom) optimal for the interferometer. Differential phase and scattering images of the metal rod samples were obtained through phase-stepping measurements with the interferometer. This demonstrates the feasibility of neutron phase imaging using a compact neutron facility and the potential for flexible and unique applications for nondestructive evaluation.

Automated summary

Neutron imaging based on a compact Talbot-Lau interferometer using the RIKEN accelerator-driven compact neutron source (RANS) was demonstrated. Differential phase and scattering images of metal rod samples were obtained, showing the feasibility of neutron phase imaging and the potential for nondestructive evaluation.