Why Use Neutrons?

Abstract

Thermal and fast neutrons can penetrate most metals while delivering high contrast for many light elements, which is often the opposite behavior of X-rays. Hydrogen, i. e. organic materials, can be detected even in lead enclosures. Neighboring elements, even isotopes of the same element, may deliver very different contrast. Neutron activation analysis can deliver in-depth information about material composition, auto radiography can even reveal hidden layers in paintings. X-ray methods are always first choice for easy application and availability, but neutron methods are great tools where X-rays fail, not only in cultural heritage. This paper provides an overview about neutron methods, which are treated in further detail in the other publications in this issue.