Dual Use Neutron Beams

Design concepts for neutron beams will be developed that provide optimum use for Neutron Computer Tomography applied to inspection of jet aircraft engine blades for hydrogen content that could cause embrittlement of the titanium-aluminum alloy. also, design concepts for neutron beams that could contribute to progress in Neutron Capture Therapy will be developed. The extent to which the same neutron source cold be used alternately for the dual application will be evaluated. Anticipated benefits include improved production-mode non-destructive inspection capability for hydrogen distribution in engine fan blades for hydrogen concentration in the range 100-200 ppm. This will contribute to engine maintenance procedures for USAf aircraft, and will also provide engineers performing design and accident analysis with data to help minimize the risks of aircraft engine failure in flight. Progress that is made in either the jet engine inspection field or the radiation therapy field should have value both in the military and commercial domains.