The project will help establishing a novel neutron imaging method for materials science. Bragg edge neutron imaging extends beyond standard neutron tomography as it is capable of non-destructively mapping important materials properties such as strain, concentrations, and crystallographic texture in the interior of materials and components. Early studies suggest that the technique is effective to optimise engineering component design and processes in vital sectors such as aerospace, car manufacturing, power generation and energy storage. Owing to its recent developments, however, many aspects pertaining to the technique need further improvement. For example, the Bragg edge methodologies developed at neutron facilities across the world are in need to be standardised, while the accuracy and repeatability between instruments need to be quantified. There is scope to extend the capabilities of the method beyond the status-quo, from a 2D to a 3D technique.

BEStMatE will address these development needs by carrying out cross-facility benchmarking of the Bragg edge method through a 'round robin' networking activity, as a first step towards standardisation. Led by the MSCA fellow and the ISIS neutron source, this collaborative effort will improve the method and help establishing it as a tool used by both academia and industry. The improved methodology will impact many material science and engineering areas, seeding breakthrough in research and increasing the utility of research infrastructure, specifically of neutron research facilities such as ISIS and the upcoming European Spallation Source. For the MSCA fellow, the round robin activity with international facilities is an excellent opportunity to enhance leadership, networking and communication capabilities with scientific peers. At the same time, the project will strengthen the capability and quality of research of the host institute, which is currently at the forefront of the development of Bragg edge tomography.