ESS – European Spallation Source

ESS – European Spallation Source

The European Spallation Source (ESS) is an international research center being constructed in Lund, Sweden. It will operate the most powerful pulsed neutron source in the world, with beam brightness up to 30 times greater than existing sources.

Operating Principle

Neutrons are generated via spallation – high-energy protons are accelerated to 95% of the speed of light and collide with a tungsten target. The released neutrons are slowed down in moderators (water and liquid hydrogen) and directed into 22 specialized instrument stations.

Applications of Neutrons

Neutrons allow scientists to explore atomic structure and material dynamics across various fields:

• Molecular biology, chemistry, and medicine
• Material science, energy, and nanotechnology
• Environmental science and cultural heritage preservation

Advantages Over Nuclear Reactors

• Does not rely on highly enriched uranium
• Higher safety and performance
• Longer lifespan and wider accessibility for researchers

International Collaboration

ESS is a collaborative project of 17 partner countries, including the Czech Republic, contributing through in-kind development such as the BEER neutron diffractometer. Access is granted via an open-call peer-reviewed system.

Funding

The project is co-financed by member states. Estimated construction cost (as of 2013) is EUR 1.843 billion, with annual operational costs around EUR 140 million.

Scientific Impact

Neutron science supports innovation in materials, biology, hydrogen fuel cells, and electronics. Neutrons enable precise, real-time imaging of atomic-level processes and structural changes in industrial materials under stress (in-situ, in-operando).

Industrial Partnerships

ESS encourages participation from businesses through its supplier platform. Companies can contribute to instrumentation, services, or research applications.