The Radiation Science Department consists of an experimental Beam Line Science group and a theory/calculations group called Radiation and Reactor Theory. The Beam Line Science group utilises X-ray, gamma ray, neutron and charge particle beams to non-destructively investigate properties of materials - as well as of complex objects (such as archaeological artefacts) - for physical, chemical and structural information at atomic, mesoscopic or macroscopic scale depending on the nature of the information required. In addition radiation is used to induce beneficial changes and transformations in materials and to study the behaviour of materials in high radiation environments.
The Radiation and Reactor Theory group focuses on the development of new reactor physics methods to incorporate into computer codes, which are used to model nuclear reactors (emphasis on research reactors) in order to optimise safety, efficiency and cost effectiveness. In addition the group uses available commercial deterministic and probabilistic computer codes to provide expert calculational support for all nuclear and radiation projects at Necsa and external clients.
Radiation and Reactor Theory (RRT)
RRT aims to act as a centre of excellence with regards to reactor physics and radiation transport knowledge and capability, with focus on:
- Reactor physics and radiation analysis services to Necsa, as well as to national and international clients and collaborators; and
- Research in the area of nuclear reactor calculational method and code development, with a specific focus on the creation of industry-relevant reactor calculational code systems.
Beamline Science
The main radiation based techniques of the Beam Line Science group are diffraction, radiography and tomography, accelerator based particle beam analytical techniques and techniques to inflict and study radiation damage and material modification.
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