Minimization of and Correction for Background in Specular Neutron Reflectivity Measurements

by Dr Charles Majkrzak (NIST)

Monday 13 Jul 2020, 14:30 → 15:30 Europe/Berlin

Zoom Webinar

The sensitivity and accuracy of neutron specular reflectivity measurements ultimately depend upon the signal-to-noise ratio that can be achieved. To this end we discuss the reduction of background by optimizing the sample support and environment, taking into account both elastic and inelastic scattering processes which may contribute to the background.  We then consider how to perform an accurate background subtraction procedure to extract the signal from the sample system of interest. Finally, we compare the performance of the conventional monochromatic beam reflectometer MAGIK at NIST to that of the new polychromatic instrument CANDOR in regard to signal and background.