Optimisation of Data Collection and Processing for Efficient Strain Scanning

Authors: Webster P.J.; Kang W.P.

Source: The Journal of Neutron Research, Volume 10, Number 2, 1 January 2002 , pp. 93-110(18)

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Abstract:

A constraint to the academic and industrial exploitation of neutron strain scanning is its cost in relation to that of alternative techniques. Generally, a large proportion of the resource cost is that for beam-time. The efficient utilisation of beam-time can be enhanced by optimising data collection and processing. The selection of three principal related factors -- detector range, angular step size and the counting time -- determines the data quality and uncertainties in defining the Bragg peak parameters required to determine strain. Theoretical and numerical analysis of computed and experimental data are used to establish a general set of well-founded, semi-empirical but theoretically-based, practical "rules of thumb" to be used when making strain measurements to a specified statistical uncertainty. The "rules" apply mostly to constant wavelength techniques where the angular position and other profile parameters of a single symmetrical Bragg peak are required but have relevance for fixed angle time-of-flight methods.

Keywords: Strain scanning; Strain uncertainties; Numerical analysis; Peak fitting; Optimisation; Diffraction

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/1023816022000006207

Publication date: 2002-01-01