Neutron Scattering at Missouri: Current Status and Future Prospects

The University of Missouri has been operating a nuclear research reactor for more than 50 years and thus has a long history in neutron scattering research. Currently, we have four neutron scattering instruments in service: a triple-axis spectrometer (TRIAX), an unpolarized neutron reflectometer (GANS), and two double-axis diffractometers (2XC and PSD). We will give an overview of the performance of the instruments and of the ongoing research projects. The PSD powder diffractometer has recently been upgraded with new electronics and software and with an expansion from 5 to 15 linear position sensitive He-3 detector tubes. We will illustrate the vast improvement of signal-to background ratio and highlight ongoing research projects. Future plans to expand our suite of neutron instruments include a thermal neutron beam imaging station. We present a conceptual design and Monte Carlo calculations. The science case concerning Plant Imaging and Tomography will be discussed.