In situ Imaging at the NIST Neutron Imaging Facility

Neutron imaging as a method to perform in situ studies of hydrogen fuel cells, hydrogen storage devices, heat pipes, and batteries has made tremendous progress in recent years. Neutrons are useful to study light elements mixed with heavy Z elements where penetration by other forms of radiation is either impossible or incapable of contrasting the light elements. Useful spatial resolution available at neutron imaging facilities is now approaching 10 micrometers. Complimentary time resolution of 30 fps or greater is also possible with a spatial resolution approaching 300 micrometers. Here we will provide an overview of the technique of neutron imaging and experimental studies with neutrons at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Examples of in situ studies of fuel cells, hydrogen storage devices, heat pipes and batteries will be discussed.