Neutron Scattering
Neutron scattering from materials allows scientists to explore the structure and dynamics of materials down to atomic length scales. Materials can be studies that are of interest to scientists in many fields including materials science and engineering, physics, chemistry, earth science and biology. Because neutrons are uncharged they can penetrate deeply into materials and it is possible to obtain the bulk properties of large samples, or to scan at depth for the residual stress in engineering components to ensure they will perform safely in operation. It is also possible by low-angle reflections to explore the properties of surfaces, buried interfaces and synthetic layered structures. The structure of membranes and materials of biological significance can also be determined. The magnetic moment of the neutron allows studies of magnetic properties and highly correlated systems.
Since the 1950s many hundreds of neutron scattering experiments have been carried out the principal Canadian facilities for neutron beam research at the NRU reactor in Chalk River Laboratories in Ontario. These experiments solve practical problems for industry sometimes with multi-million dollar impacts, and pushing back the frontiers of human understanding of the world around us. Those experiments have contributed to the education of many hundreds of highly qualified people across the spectrum of science.
The Canadian Neutron Beam Centre
Today, the National Research Council - Canadian Neutron Beam Centre (NRC-CNBC) operates several spectrometers at Chalk River Laboratories. NRC-CNBC, Canada's premier science and technology research organization, is a leader in scientific and technical research, the diffusion of technology and the dissemination of scientific and technical information. Working in partnership with innovative companies, universities and research organizations world wide, NRC-CNBC enhances Canada's social and economic well-being and creates new opportunities for Canadians.
The NRC-CNBC is a unique national science facility, and is a resource for university scientists, industrial users, and visitors from NRC and other government laboratories. It enjoys a strong international reputation, and connects Canadian scientists to international collaborations with over a 100 institutions in more than 20 countries during a typical five-year period.
For any scientist who wishes to conduct neutron beam research, a proposal for beam time may be submitted at any time. Access to neutron spectrometers and a variety of ancillary equipment is granted free of charge to users whose research is destined for the public domain. Proposals are reviewed by an independent committee of experts drawn from CINS members. The review process is overseen by CINS.
For proprietary research, access is arranged through a simple fee-for-service agreement.
NRU Reactor
The NRC Canadian Neutron Beam Centre utilises the neutrons from the NRU research reactor to carry out neutron scattering research. The NRU reactor is Canada's largest and most productive science facility. As well as the neutron scattering activities that CINS represents (pioneered by Canadian Nobel Laureate Bertram Brockhouse), the NRU reactor is the world's largest producer of medical isotopes, used to treat more than 21 million people in 60 countries each year. It is also the test-bed for Canada's nuclear electricity industry. That industry could not have exist today without the facilities in the NRU reactor. The NRU reactor is own and operated by AECL. Read more about this remarkable science facility at www.NRUreactor.ca.
Chalk River Laboratories
Chalk River Laboratories are situated on the banks of the Ottawa River, in the upper Ottawa valley, Ontario. They are approximately 2 hours drive up river from Ottawa. Originally built after World War II for continued allied atomic research, the labs were originally part of the National Research Council. In 1952 the laboratories' organisation became a crown corporation "Atomic Energy of Canada." The labs consist of 100 buildings covering a square kilometre and employ 2,000 people.
