Neutrons illuminate environmental and biological mysteries

Neutron processes have been considered important in various fields of science for their ability to penetrate materials without changing their structure. However, their use in environmental and biological sciences has been limited. Complex systems such as water-soil interaction and plant physiology are difficult for traditional methods. Because of these challenges, there is an urgent need to improve neutron techniques to gain a deeper understanding of these complex processes.

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory made this observation, published in Frontiers in Environmental Science and Engineering on April 15, 2024. Examines the use of neutron techniques in environmental and biological sciences, focusing on recent developments and their potential to solve important research problems. This study highlights the potential of neutron scattering, imaging, and other techniques to study complex biological and environmental processes across multiple scales.

The study identifies several key areas where neutron techniques are particularly important. For example, neutron imaging has been important in characterizing soil-root interactions, providing detailed information on water and nutrient transport within the rhizosphere. Neutron scattering techniques have allowed researchers to probe the nanoscale structure of porous materials, providing important information about fluid dynamics and material behavior under different conditions.

The development of new facilities, such as those at the Second Artificial Neutron Source (STS), has expanded the field of neutron research, enabling time-resolved studies and small sample sizes. These developments open up new opportunities for in situ studies, which provide a comprehensive understanding of critical processes for addressing global challenges such as climate change and sustainable agriculture.

Dr. Alexander Johs, a leading expert in the field, said, “The progress of neutron techniques is not just an increase; it represents a paradigm shift in how to study complex environmental and biological processes. . With the new capabilities emerging from neutron centers around the world, we are on the verge of making discoveries that we would never have been able to reach, which are important for solving the most important problems in environmental science. and biology.”

The implications of this research are wide-ranging, particularly in sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and bioenergy. By enabling detailed and accurate analysis of complex systems, neutron techniques can advance the development of sustainable solutions to global problems.

Continued development and application of these methods may lead to better understanding of how ecosystems and biological systems interact, and ultimately contribute to more effective resource management strategies. nature and reduce the effects of climate change.