Surface/interface dynamics investigated with neutron scattering

Research Project, 2017 – 2020

Proton dynamics play a key role in biological and chemical systems and in many materials of high interest for science and society; examples are living systems and bio-molecules; other examples are materials for energy applications such as batteries and fuel cells. Quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) is the tool of choice for the study of atomic-scale dynamics, but QENS is often hindered by the limited neutron flux at present-day neutron sources, implying that experiments are normally restricted to large samples, whereas studies of dynamics on surfaces/interfaces – which are accumulating enormous importance - are a lot more challenging. Our proposal is (i) to build much-needed capacity and capability in studies of surface/interface dynamics using QENS, (ii) to establish the current limitations of QENS to study interfacial phenomena, using as testbed the study of atomic-scale proton dynamics in technologically relevant oxides for energy applications, and (iii) to extend the remit of the technique and to expand the associated user base. This is of extraordinary importance of taking full advantage of the ESS, which will offer a largely improved performance compared to current neutron sources and the study of dynamics on surfaces/interfaces may become routine. The project is intended for the period 2017-01-01 to 2020-12-31 and will be performed as a collaboration between Chalmers and Uppsala University in Sweden and the ISIS Pulsed Neutron and Muon Source in the U.K.