International collaborations

As Europe’s flagship centre for neutron science, ILL is the obvious contact for organisations outside Europe to liaise regarding neutron scattering. Since its inception in 1967, ILL develops relationships with all major neutron scattering facilities in the world. International collaboration include the creation of the International Society for Sample Environment (http://sampleenvironment.org/) and the International working group on He3 crisis for detectors (ICND.org). Coordination of scientific programmes, e.g. South Africa for HIV and Malaria disease research, or capacity building of Indian engineers (e.g. super mirror development) or training of Argentine Scientists. 

European Spallation Source, Lund, Sweden

The MoU provides the framework required for enhanced cooperation between ILL and ESS, particularly in the fields of neutron-scattering instrumentation and beam components.

Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex, Japan

Collaborative efforts in the development of new neutron detectors as possible alternatives to Helium-3 detectors for neutron scattering applications, in response to the escalating supply shortage of Helium-3. Member of ISSE to promote scientific and technical development of sample environments at scattering facilities.

NIST Centre for Neutron Research, USA

Collaboration in the development of new neutron detectors and member of the International Society for Sample Environment (ISSE).

OPAL research reactor, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation

Collaboration on development of a Helium-3 filling station. Also collaboration in the development of new neutron detectors and member of the International Society for Sample Environment (ISSE).

Neutron Science Directorate, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), USA

Collaborative efforts to develop higher density low enriched uranium fuels that could substitute for highly enriched uranium fuels in existing research reactors. Also collaboration in the development of new neutron detectors and member of the International Society for Sample Environment (ISSE).

Petersburg Nuclear Physics Institute (PNPI) of the National Research Centre "Kurchatov Institute", Russia

ILL signed a MoU with PNPI to promote cooperative research and development of the ILL high flux reactor as well as to fully exploit the possibilities offered by the new high flux research reactor PIK to be commissioned at PNPI.

Centro Atomico Bariloche, Argentina

Continuous collaboration and capacity building in Argentina. Argentine staff is working at ILL for longer periods (up to one year). ILL staff supports schools held in Bariloche.

Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, India

Tech-Transfer of super mirror manufacturing. India has been a member country for a 4 years period. Training of Indian engineers.

Science & Technology Department, Republic of South Africa

Prime interactions with South Africa for potential closer engagement through joint funding of projects on HIV, Malaria disease research.