Investigation of the neutron reflectivity of multilayer carbon structures

The principal possibility of creation of a new type of multilayer neutron structures using hydrogenated carbon films is described. The structures are based on a carbon matrix filled with a spatially periodic concentration of hydrogen. The reflection coefficient of the multilayer carbon structures is investigated both theoretically and experimentally. It was shown that the difference in the hydrogen concentration in the carbon layers is the main reason for the neutron reflectivity of multilayer carbon structures.

Research Highlights
► Application of multilayer carbon structures for neutron reflectivity.
► The equations for the cross-section of neutron diffraction in multilayer structures.
► The variation of hydrogen concentration is the main reason for the neutron reflectivity.
► The maximal reflectivity is about 10% for the wavelength 0.38 nm.