Monte Carlo simulations of the new small-angle neutron scattering instrument SANS-1 at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Forschungsneutronenquelle

Abstract

A new small-angle scattering instrument SANS-1 will be installed on beamline NL 4a at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Forschungsneutronenquelle (FRM II). It is a joint venture between the Technische Universität München and the Geesthacht Neutron Facility (GENF). SANS-1 has been optimized to be one of the most intense and versatile small-angle scattering instruments within the boundaries of available space and interaction with neighbouring instruments. Using the program McStas, the dimensions and the features of the different optical components were investigated and compared for the final selection. A vertical S-shaped neutron guide, a tower with two possible selectors, one for medium resolution at high intensity and one for high resolution, and two optimized transmission polarizers are the main advantages of SANS-1 compared with traditional instruments at other facilities. © International Union of Crystallography 2007.