Versatile module for experiments with focussing neutron guides

TL;DR

This paper introduces a versatile, easy-to-use module for focussing neutron guides that enhances experimental flexibility and efficiency in neutron scattering studies, demonstrated through stress effects on chromium.

Contribution

A novel module design allowing quick switching between neutron guides with different focusing properties without readjustments.

Findings

High-precision alignment improves setup reliability.

Substantial gain factors enhance measurement sensitivity.

Successful application in studying uniaxial stress effects on chromium.

Abstract

We report the development of a versatile module that permits fast and reliable use of focussing neutron guides under varying scattering angles. A simple procedure for setting up the module and neutron guides is illustrated by typical intensity patterns to highlight operational aspects as well as typical parasitic artefacts. Combining a high-precision alignment table with separate housings for the neutron guides on kinematic mounts, the change-over between neutron guides with different focussing characteristics requires no readjustments of the experimental set-up. Exploiting substantial gain factors, we demonstrate the performance of this versatile neutron scattering module in a study of the effects of uniaxial stress on the domain populations in the transverse spin density wave phase of single crystal Cr.