High-tech composites

Neutron diffraction methods offer a direct measure of the elastic
component of strain deep within crystalline materials through precise
characterisation of the interplanar crystal lattice spacing. The unique
non-destructive nature of this measurement technique is particularly
beneficial in the context of engineering design and archaeological
materials science, since it allows the evaluation of a variety of structural
and deformational parameters inside real components without material
removal, or at worst with minimal interference. We review a wide range
of recent experimental studies using the Engin-X materials engineering
instrument at the ISIS neutron source and show how the technique
provides the basis for developing improved insight into materials of great
importance to applications and industry.