Development of a Fresnel lens for cold neutrons based on neutron refractive optics

We have developed compound refractive lenses (CRLs) for cold neutrons, which are made of vitreous silica and have an effective potential of (90.1–2.7×10−4i) neV. In the case of compound refractive optics, neutron absorption by the material deteriorates lens performance. Thus, to prevent an increase in neutron absorption with increasing beam size, we have developed Fresnel lenses using the electrolytic in-process dressing grinding technique. The lens characteristics were carefully investigated with experimental and numerical simulation studies. The lenses functioned as a neutron focusing lens, and the focal length of 14 m was obtained with a 44-element series of the Fresnel lenses for 10 Å neutrons. Moreover, good neutron transmission of 0.65 for 15 Å neutrons was obtained due to the shape effect. According to comprehensive analysis of the obtained results, it is possible to realize a CRL for practical use by choosing a suitable lens shape and material.