Researchers from the University of Chicago's Oriental Institute will be using the APS to analyze ancient tools in the institute's collection. The X-rays will enable many artifacts to be examined quickly, with high precision, and without damage to the tools. Researchers will use computer software to convert the emissions into measurements of the chemical composition of the artifacts. We are taking a great step forward by accessing the breadth of expertise available at Argonne. IPNS is the longest running spallation neutron source in the country and the most cost effective of all DOE neutron sources.
Neutrons are uncharged particles useful for studying atomic structure.
IPNS produces them by accelerating protons, the positively charged particles found in the nucleus of every atom, into a uranium target. The process results in a spray of neutrons that are directed to experiments arranged around the target. The machine produces 30 pulses per second during experiment runs. IPNS hosts hundreds of researchers from around the globe each year. More than 3,600 experiments have been performed by scientists since IPNS first operated as a national user facility in 1981.