European Spallation Source receives permit for neutron production
The Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM) has granted the European Spallation Source (ESS) a permit to begin producing neutrons and conduct full-scale tests later this year. This permit marks a significant milestone in the facility's licensing process.
The European Spallation Source (ESS) has received a permit from the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM) to produce neutrons. This authorization allows the facility to commence full-scale, neutron-based tests later this year. The permit represents a crucial step in ESS's phased licensing procedure and confirms the facility's readiness for the next stage towards scientific operation.
Following a thorough review, SSM has determined that ESS meets the necessary conditions to safely initiate neutron production from a radiation safety standpoint. This decision is the culmination of over a decade of work and is essential for the facility's future operations.
With the new permit, ESS can proceed with the commissioning of the accelerator and initiate the planned commissioning program for the target station. The "Beam on Target" operation, where the proton beam is directed at the target station to produce the first neutrons, is anticipated for next winter. The permit also covers the commissioning of neutron instruments, supporting the development of the scientific user program. The permit is valid for five years, during which SSM will maintain regulatory oversight. Further applications and reviews will be required for an operational license.
Upon its full operation in 2028, ESS is set to become the world's most powerful neutron source. By accelerating protons to near light speed and directing them towards a tungsten target station, neutrons are released through spallation. These neutrons will then be used to investigate the atomic structure and behavior of materials, opening new avenues for research in fields such as materials science, chemistry, and biology.