Neutron Optics with Gradient Crystals

Abstract

To date almost exclusively mosaic crystals are used on instruments employing Bragg optics. However, gradient crystals, which are distinguished by a local variation of the interplanar lattice spacing, are an alternative means to design optimized optical components. Recently, significant progress has been achieved in the make of Si-Ge gradient crystals. Some simple applications will be presented in this paper where longitudinal and lateral gradient crystals hold promise for increased instrument performance.