How can Neutron Imaging contribute to Heritage Science? An overview at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source

Abstract

Heritage Science HS spans a large variety of objects and materials, as well as anything that has historic, artistic, anthropological, and natural significance. This paper aims to bridge the gap between the physical and natural sciences and the humanities, and divulge neutron imaging techniques to a wider community. Here we give an introduction of the neutron imaging capabilities at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source (UK), and a brief overview of some research activities in HS carried out at the facility in recent years, from neutron tomography to elemental imaging.

A Vision for the Future of Neutron Scattering and Muon Spectroscopy in the 2050s

“…The high penetration of neutrons means that bulk composition can be determined. Neutron radiography and tomography provide complementary approaches to the X-ray methods …”

Mapping the elemental distribution in archaeological findings through advanced Neutron Resonance Transmission Imaging

“…In recent years, neutron imaging established its strengths and extraordinary versatility for non-destructive investigation of many kinds of morphological and microstructural properties of materials [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9], as proved by the increase in its availability at neutron sources worldwide, providing fully complementary information concerning conventional imaging techniques based on other probes such as X-rays [10][11][12][13][14][15][16]. The rapid development of neutron imaging methods and detection systems has led to a striking improvement in resolution and efficiency, as well as in techniques based on a broad range of contrast mechanisms, making imaging with neutron beams indispensable in modern research.…”