Novel approach for neutron polarisation
Developing SM without the need for strong accompanying magnetic fields has formed part of the TECNHI project's objectives. The TECHNI project has been aimed at improving instrumentation available to neutron facilities across Europe. Researchers from the Paul Scherrer Institute in Switzerland have developed a remanent SM that does not require strong magnetic fields. Furthermore, it can switch the magnetization of the polarisator and thus the transmitted spin state. The team has moved from the design to the prototype phase, and a number of such polarizers have been produced and utilised in a laboratory setting. The material combinations used have been in accordance to the demands of a transmission geometry setting. The Fe/Si combination system produced the most promising results in regards to magnetic behaviour. Although these developments are at a relatively early stage of exploration, they might offer solutions to a number of key challenges posed by today's neutron scattering technology.
