The most economical way to increase the neutron intensity at an instument is an optimization of all the components that are responsible for the extraction, moderation, transport, shaping and detection of the neutron beam. Because the principal interaction of neutrons with matter is of nuclear and magnetic origin, most components rely on di!raction, re#ection, and absorption of neutrons by suitable materials. Recently, major breakthroughs in the development of arti"cial multilayers, monochromators, and "lters have improved the performance of neutron scattering instruments signi"cantly. In this contribution we discuss recent progress in these "elds and some present and future applications and trends. 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.     «

The most economical way to increase the neutron intensity at an instument is an optimization of all the components that are responsible for the extraction, moderation, transport, shaping and detection of the neutron beam. Because the principal interaction of neutrons with matter is of nuclear and magnetic origin, most components rely on di!raction, re#ection, and absorption of neutrons by suitable materials. Recently, major breakthroughs in the development of arti"cial multilayers, monochromator...     »