Special Issue on Key Technologies of the China Spallation Neutron Source

The China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS) is the first pulsed spallation neutron source in developing countries and a cornerstone of China's scientific infrastructure for multidisciplinary research. Since its completion in 2018, CSNS has been operating efficiently, with beam power reaching 170 kW—significantly exceeding its 100 kW design goal. The CSNS-II upgrade project, launched in 2024, aims to further increase beam power to 500 kW and construct 9 more neutron scattering instruments, positioning CSNS at the forefront of international neutron scattering research.

This Special Issue aims to present the latest advancements in key technologies developed for CSNS and its upgrade. We invite original research articles and comprehensive reviews covering the design, construction, commissioning, and performance optimization of critical subsystems.

Topics of particular interest align with CSNS's core technological pillars and include, but are not limited to:

• Accelerator Technologies

RF-driven negative hydrogen ion sources: beam current enhancement, emittance optimization, and long-term stability

Magnetic alloy (MA) loaded cavities: wideband high-gradient RF cavity design, multi-harmonic RF system for space charge compensation, and LLRF control system upgrades

• Target Station

Spallation neutron target design: tungsten target with tantalum cladding, thermohydraulic performance, and remote handling for target replacement

Moderator-reflector assemblies: coupled and decoupled hydrogen moderators, neutronic performance characterization

• Neutron Detectors

Large-area position-sensitive detector arrays: ³He tube detectors, GEM detectors, and neutron cameras

High-efficiency vacuum-compatible detectors with high spatial resolution and low-power readout electronics for CSNS-II

• Data Analysis Software

Neutron scattering data reduction software: RZera, sansRZ, and time focusing algorithms for time-of-flight data

Graphical user interfaces and automated workflows for interdisciplinary user communities

• Fusion Materials Irradiation Platform

The CSNS-based Fusion Reactor Materials Irradiation and Evaluation Platform for studying synergistic effects of radiation damage, helium, and hydrogen production under fusion-relevant conditions

As CSNS continues to expand its capabilities and user community, we believe this Special Issue will serve as a valuable reference for researchers and engineers working on spallation neutron sources and related accelerator-based facilities worldwide.

Timeline:

Submission deadline: September 30, 2026

Acceptance deadline: December 30, 2026

Expected publication date: March 30, 2027

Guest editor:

Ping Miao is a leading scientist at the Institute of High Energy Physics (IHEP), Chinese Academy of Sciences, and a key contributor to the China Spallation Neutron Source project. He has extensive experience in neutron scattering instrumentation and accelerator technologies. Dr. Miao has been actively involved in the design, construction, and commissioning of high-resolution neutron diffractometer (TREND) at CSNS, as well as the polarized neutron spectrometer (PAINTER) in the CSNS-II upgrade project. His research interests include neutron scattering instrumentation and scientific applications. He has authored numerous publications in leading journals and has served as a principal investigator for multiple national key research projects.