NIST and Sandia National Laboratories scientists have developed a new method using neutrons to detect electric fields in spaces that are inaccessible to conventional probes. This non-destructive technique could lead to sensing devices that can see through walls to detect the electric fields in electronic components, with potential applications in security screening and diagnostic imaging.
The method involves using the magnetic spin of polarized neutrons to sense electric fields, despite the neutrons being electrically neutral. The researchers achieved high accuracy in measuring small rotations, though further advancements are needed for practical portable devices.
The significance of this technique lies in its ability to image electric fields in physically isolated spaces without dismantling the object. It could find applications such as diagnosing operating high-voltage electronics or studying materials with electric properties in sample environments. The innovative work demonstrates the validity of the concept and paves the way for future experiments and applications in electric field sensing using polarized neutrons.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2020/09/nist-scientists-reveal-power-behind-curtain-neutrons
Keywords: electric fields, neutron sensing, sensing devices
