Neutron Diffraction Group
The diffraction group is a group within the Laboratory for Neutron Scattering (LNS), Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), department Research with Neutrons and Muons (NUM).
The neutron diffraction group operates four instruments at the Swiss continuous spallation neutron source SINQ: The high resolution neutron powder diffractometer HRPT, covering 160° in 2Θ, the cold neutron powder diffractometer DMC, covering 80°, the neutron single crystal diffractometer TriCS and the crystal testing instrument Orion.
The neutron diffraction group operates four instruments at the Swiss continuous spallation neutron source SINQ: The high resolution neutron powder diffractometer HRPT, covering 160° in 2Θ, the cold neutron powder diffractometer DMC, covering 80°, the neutron single crystal diffractometer TriCS and the crystal testing instrument Orion.
| DMC | cold neutron powder diffractometer | λ=2.3 - 6 Å , Δd/d ≥ .006, linear detector with 400 channels (0.2°) |
|---|---|---|
| HRPT | thermal powder diffractometer | λ=0.94 - 2.41 Å, Δd/d ≥ .0009, linear detector with 1600 channels (0.1°) |
| TriCS | thermal single crystal diffractometer | λ=1.177 Å, 2.317 Å , Δd/d ≥ .005, 4-circle open cradle and tilt-mode, single and 2D detector |
| Orion | cold neutron test instrument | λ=2.214 Å , double-goniometer (±12°) and closed 4-circle-cradle (spring 2012) |
Beside the research of the diffraction group and the LNS research in condensed matter physics, we support external users of our instruments in performing the experiments and in the first data treatment. Well prepared experiments together with the collaboration between outside and inside experts is very fruitful and yields excellent results. We are well supported by the LDM department concerning computing and sample environment and the condensed matter theory group (CMT) in the evaluation of our data.
A permanently updated publication list is available on our site.
Instrument Projects
PANTHER: TriCS Upgrade, Design and Scientific Case.Laue Auxilary on POLDI (PLC): We are presently completing a LAUE usable as an auxilary (like a cryostat) on POLDI. The first tests on this beamline were encouraging, as the POLDI position offers a very very low background. The setup under design will include a small electronic 2D-camera, positionable in 2-theta and in height. First goal: Alignement and test opportunity for crystals at ambient temperature using neutrons.
DMC: Replacement of detector electronics, nonmagnetic sample table
We are partner in the 2-year Erasmus Mundus Program MaMaSELF
Next deadline for applicants with Swiss citizenship: January 26, 2011 (grants of 22'000 Euro per year are available for Swiss citizens). Students must have a bachelor with 180 ETCS points.