NEUTRON RADIOGRAPHY Meaning and
Definition
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Neutron radiography is a non-destructive imaging technique that utilizes the properties of neutrons to visualize the internal structures of objects or materials. Neutrons are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom and are electrically neutral, allowing them to penetrate through dense materials, such as metals or ceramics, which are often impenetrable by other forms of radiation, such as X-rays.
In neutron radiography, a sample or object is placed between a neutron source and a detector. The neutron source emits a beam of neutrons that passes through the sample. As the neutrons interact with the internal structure of the object, they undergo scattering, absorption, or transmission, resulting in variations in neutron intensity reaching the detector. This information is then used to generate an image that reveals the internal composition, defects, or hidden features of the object being studied.
Neutron radiography has a wide range of applications across various fields, including aerospace, engineering, archaeology, and art conservation. It is particularly valuable for examining dense and complex materials, such as welds, turbine blades, fuel cells, or historical artifacts, where the internal structures play a vital role in understanding their performance, quality, or authenticity. Furthermore, neutron radiography is a non-destructive technique, allowing thorough inspections without altering or damaging the examined objects.
Etymology of NEUTRON RADIOGRAPHY
The word "neutron radiography" is composed of two main elements: "neutron" and "radiography".
1. Neutron:
The term "neutron" originated from the Latin word "neutron", which means "neuter" or "the neutral one". It was first used in a scientific context by the British physicist James Chadwick in 1932. Chadwick discovered the presence of a neutral particle within the atomic nucleus, distinct from positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons. This neutral particle was named the "neutron".
2. Radiography:
The word "radiography" is a combination of two Latin roots: "radius" meaning "ray" or "beam" and "graphy" meaning "to write" or "to record". It is a technique used to create an image of the internal structure of an object using penetrating radiation such as X-rays or gamma rays.
