New Reactor with Cold Neutron Source Launched by TU Delft

In recent years, the TU Delft team, in collaboration with more than 10 national and international partners and suppliers, has successfully completed a remarkable technical feat. The reactor is now operational once again, with the distinctive blue light emanating from its core. This achievement involved the installation of a "neutron cooler" adjacent to the reactor core, the construction of all necessary facilities, and the upgrade of measuring instruments. As a result of these enhancements, the TU Delft Reactor Institute now stands as one of the six research reactors in Europe equipped with a cold neutron source, enabling advanced research opportunities.

At the TU Delft Reactor Institute, a significant focus is placed on advancing research capabilities in the field of materials science. The institute continually invests in improving measurement methods and research techniques to facilitate groundbreaking non-destructive research on various materials using the research reactor. These ongoing efforts have recently reached a milestone with the completion of the OYSTER programme: Optimized Yield – for Science, Technology, and Education – of Radiation.

The introduction of the cold neutron source within the OYSTER programme marks a pivotal development. Cold neutrons, due to their lower energy levels, exhibit greater interaction with research objects compared to non-cooled neutrons. This enhanced interaction translates to a significant improvement in the quality and speed of measurements, potentially increasing efficiency by a factor of a hundred. Wim Koppers, the director of the Institute, expressed his pride in the team's accomplishments and eagerly anticipates welcoming researchers and scientists from around the globe to utilize the enhanced research capabilities of the reactor.

Researchers and scientists utilizing the TU Delft Reactor Institute's facilities can now benefit from the advanced capabilities offered by the cold neutron source. The improved measurement precision and efficiency provided by the cold neutrons open up new avenues for conducting cutting-edge research in various fields, including materials science, physics, and engineering. The availability of such state-of-the-art research infrastructure positions the institute as a hub for innovative research and scientific collaboration on an international scale.

In conclusion, the successful implementation of the cold neutron source at the TU Delft Reactor Institute represents a significant leap forward in research capabilities. The institute's commitment to advancing measurement methods and research techniques underscores its dedication to fostering scientific excellence and innovation. With the completion of the OYSTER programme and the integration of the cold neutron source, the institute is poised to attract top researchers and scientists worldwide, solidifying its reputation as a leading research institution in the field of nuclear science and materials research.