Inelastic scattering of neutrons by superconducting rings

TL;DR

This paper presents a theoretical derivation of the inelastic neutron scattering cross section by superconducting rings, revealing how neutron energy increases discretely and flux quanta decrease during the process.

Contribution

It provides a new theoretical framework for understanding inelastic neutron scattering involving superconducting rings, including quantitative calculations for thin film type-II superconductors.

Findings

Discretized increase in neutron kinetic energy during scattering

Reduction in magnetic flux quanta in the ring

Quantitative cross section calculations for thin film superconductors

Abstract

The differential cross section for the inelastic magnetic scattering of neutrons by superconducting rings is derived theoretically taking account of the interaction of the neutron magnetic moment with magnetic field created by the superconducting current. In this scattering process the neutron kinetic energy increases discretely and, respectively, the number of the magnetic flux quanta trapped in the ring, reduces. Quantitative calculations of the scattering cross section for cold neutrons is carried out for thin film rings from type-II superconductors with the film thickness $d<\lambda$($\lambda$ is the penetration depth).