The VULCAN (Versatile ULtra-Compact Accelerator-based Neutron source) project is a collaborative initiative to develop a compact, pulsed cold and thermal (1.5 ˚A to 3.5 ˚A) neutron source for use in industrial, research, and scientific fields. VULCAN is specifically designed to facilitate non-destructive analysis of the internal characteristics of materials and devices.

From 2021 to 2024, DAES SA, the Danish Technological Institute (DTI), and Xnovo Technology ApS collaborated, funded by EUREKA-Eurostars, to develop VULCAN’s initial design. DAES led the target-moderator-reflector assembly design, DTI optimised neutron transport and beamline delivery, and Xnovo created software for real-time data analysis and interpretation. A key decision was to use a compact electron accelerator for cost-effective, high-performance neutron generation. From 2023 to 2025, CERN and DAES are advancing this technology through joint R&D funded by CERN’s Innovation Programme on Environmental Applications (CIPEA).

CERNs contribution is in the conceptual design of an electron accelerator, establishment of radiation & sensor monitoring system, cooling of the moderator as well as the provision of the test facility (CLEAR Electron beam irradiation) including the control system, hardware and software.

Application areas:

Measuring residual stresses in metal and ceramic parts following various manufacturing processes, including additive manufacturing, as well as performing in-situ studies of changes in metallic anodes, such as deposition, stripping, and dendritic growth, in lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries and fuel cells.

Key features:

Compact, pulsed cold and thermal neutron source allowing time of flight measurements.

Project partner

DAES Engineering SA is a Swiss engineering company that specialises in providing advanced solutions for various industries, including aviation and energy. Their services range from engineering design and analysis to project management and system integration. DAES Engineering SA focuses on innovation and cutting-edge technology to provide customized solutions for their clients.
Find out more: https://daes.pro