Analysis and design of multilayer structures for neutron monochromators and supermirrors

TL;DR

This paper introduces an analytical model for neutron multilayer structures, providing design guidelines for high reflectivity monochromators and supermirrors, including bandwidth considerations and synthesis algorithms.

Contribution

It presents a new analytical model and an efficient synthesis algorithm for designing neutron multilayer monochromators and supermirrors with optimized reflectivity.

Findings

Derived the number of layers needed for narrow bandwidth monochromators

Proposed an algorithm for supermirror synthesis

Discussed restrictions on maximum achievable reflectivity

Abstract

A relatively simple and accurate analytical model for studying the reflectivity of neutron multilayer monochromators and supermirrors is proposed. Design conditions that must be fulfilled in order to reach the maximum reflectivity are considered. The question of the narrowest bandwidth of a monochromator is discussed and the number of layers required to build such a monochromator is derived. Finally, we propose a new and efficient algorithm for synthesis of a supermirror with specified parameters and discuss some inherent restrictions on an attainable reflectivity.