Beam Line Centre
The Beam Line Centre (BLC) at Necsa provides specialised neutron and X-ray diffraction and imaging facilities for the non-destructive investigation and characterisation of materials, components and objects. These complementary techniques enable researchers and industry users to study material structure, composition and internal features across a wide range of scientific and engineering applications that include, but is not limited to:
- Agricultural sciences
- Biological and life sciences
- Catalysis
- Crystallography (Organic and Inorganic chemistry)
- Energy-storage and energy-conversion materials
- Engineering, including mechanical and metallurgical applications
- Geosciences
- Magnetism
- Nanomaterials
- Palaeontology and heritage science
Alignment with national science, technology and innovation priorities
Research undertaken at the BLC contributes to priorities identified in the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation’s Revised Strategic Plan 2025–2030 and the Science, Technology and Innovation Decadal Plan 2022–2032. These policy frameworks emphasise the use of science, technology and innovation to:
- Modernise agriculture, manufacturing and mining
- Support the digital and circular economies
- Advance health and energy innovation
- Strengthen the capability of the state
- Promote social progress
- Address climate change and environmental sustainability
- Prepare for the future of education, skills and work
- Respond to the future needs of society
Investigative Techniques:
Diffraction
Necsa’s diffraction facilities are unique on the African continent in offering both neutron- and X-ray-based diffraction investigations at a single institution. Diffraction provides fundamental insight into the crystallographic structure and magnetic ordering of materials, supporting research in materials science, mechanical and metallurgical engineering, chemistry, physics and the geological sciences.
Diffraction techniques apply Bragg’s law (as shown schematically in the diagram below) to analyse the constructive interference of neutron or X-ray waves interacting with a material. The resulting diffraction patterns provide information about atomic arrangements, phases, stresses, strains and other structural properties.
Imaging
Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques are used as non-destructive probes to investigate the internal structure of objects and materials at the micron scale. These techniques support both fundamental and applied research without requiring the sample or object to be cut open or otherwise damaged.
Radiography records differences in the intensity of radiation transmitted through a sample. Variations in material thickness, density and composition produce a two-dimensional projection or “shadow image” as shown in the figure below. Tomography uses multiple projections to reconstruct a three-dimensional representation of the sample’s internal structure.
Instruments
The BLC provides access to a number of beam-line instruments as is available here
Access to Facilities and Beam Time
Beam time is available to researchers within the South African National System of Innovation, international users and industry. The BLC User Office coordinates calls for proposals, applications and beam-time scheduling, and provides the relevant forms, schedules and submission requirements.
Applications are evaluated on their scientific and technological merit and remain subject to instrument availability and operational requirements. Proprietary industrial projects are also welcomed.
For assistance visit the BLC User Office website or , contact UserOffice@necsa.co.za.
