The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) is a one-of-a-kind research facility that provides the neutron scattering community with unprecedented research opportunities [1]. In order to continue to provide these opportunities, the Neutron Sciences Strategic Plan [2] outlines several science priorities including those related to materials synthesis and performance. More specifically, the priorities include characterizing matter far from equilibrium and understanding details of the local structure in disordered and amorphous materials under the relevant thermophysical environment.
The newly developed Neutron Electrostatic Levitator (NESL) [3] is among the enabling technologies that allow for in situ study of refractory materials at high temperature in both solid and liquid equilibrium and non-equilibrium (i.e. supercooled) states at both elastic and inelastic beam lines. Early experiments at the NOMAD and ARCS beamlines have demonstrated the capabilities of the NESL for both elastic and inelastic neutron scattering [4-6].
A workshop on August 18 and 19 will engage the scientific community to inform on the capabilities of the NESL, gauge interest, and extend the science case for the NESL beyond its initial scope. An overview of the NESL and the beamline capabilities will be presented along with invited talks to discuss recent scientific advances in areas relevant to the NESL. Panel sessions will facilitate discussions related to the future utility of the sample environment, and an initial draft report will be prepared.
The goals of the workshop are to identify the scientific research areas that best use the capabilities of NESL, identify and prioritize steps to maximize the effectiveness of the NESL, and define the requirements and resources needed.
[1] https://neutrons.ornl.gov/sns
[2] https://neutrons.ornl.gov/sites/default/files/NScD-Strategic-Plan-2014.pdf
[3] N. A. Mauro et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 87 (2016) 013904.
[4] M. L. Johnson et al., Phys. Rev. B 93 (2016) 054203.