Review of Neutron Radiographic Technology and its Applications in NDT

Neutron radiography is a method of radiographic NDT technology rising in the sixties of the 20th century. The absorption characteristics of matter for X-rays and neutrons differ drastically; the two techniques in general serve to complement one another. Neutron radiography has found many successful applications in aerospace, biology, archaeology, electronics etc. Because of lacking of appropriate neutron sources, there are limited applications of Neutron radiography in China. This paper briefly introduces the principle of neutron radiography and the configuration of the typical neutron radiographic system. The development of the technology itself, its applications in NDT and standards established are at present and discussed. Finally suggestions on development of accelerator neutron sources, research on industrial applications and establishment of testing standards are presented.