Remote Sampling of Failed Spallation Neutron Source Targets

Abstract

The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) is a unique high powered particle accelerator-based source of neutrons for research and development purposes. Protons are accelerated into a mercury-filled stainless steel target where they “spall” off neutrons that are then collimated into beams for use in multiple experiments simultaneously. The mercury targets are intended to last up to one year and then must be changed out remotely due to activation by the high intensity proton and neutron beams. In the recent past several of these million dollar targets have failed in a matter of weeks. A team was assembled to acquire samples that could be used for diagnostics of the failures. The team developed a remote sampling tool that was small, economical, simple, easy to use, and could be fabricated and deployed quickly.