Continuously operating compact He-3-based neutron spin filter

Type of Work

Article

Date

2-15-2005

Journal Title

Physica B: Condensed Matter

Journal ISSN

0921-4526

Journal Volume

356

Journal Issue

1-4

First Page

86

Last Page

90

DOI

10.1016/j.physb.2004.10.054

Abstract

Polarized 3 He can be used as a spin filter to polarize a broad energy spectrum of neutrons. As a prototype for use on the single-crystal diffractometer (SCD) at the spallation neutron source (SNS), we have built a compact system to continuously polarize a He-3 spin filter by spin-exchange optical pumping. Polarizing in the neutron beam provides a constant neutron polarization and reduces the sensitivity to relaxation mechanisms. The capability to operate in the presence of non-optimal magnetic field homogeneity allowed us to employ a highly compact solenoid only 9.5 cm in diameter and 20cm long. Using only 7W of laser light we maintained 44% (3)Hc polarization in an 11cm(3) cell, despite an overall cell relaxation time of approximate to 10h. Results from a test on the SCD at IPNS are discussed. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Hamilton Areas of Study

Physics

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