Environment
Neutron research can be help solve
a variety of environmental challenges, such as
pollution and waste generation and disposal. |
When the chemical industry
produces fluoropolymers to make pots and pans (Teflon®)
and to protect carpets against staining (Scotchgard®),
an undesirable by-product is environmental pollution.
Research is under way to develop
environmentally friendly processes that don't use ozone-destroying
chlorofluorocarbons and that could significantly reduce
the amount of contaminated water and toxic waste generated.
Neutron research has
provided detailed insight into how to improve manufacturing
processes so that fewer contaminants are generated
and released into the environment.
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Neutron research could lead to improved separation technologies for removing contaminants from waste streams and soils while retaining the valuable chemicals for reuse.
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For example, if interest in recycling plastics picks up, SNS can help scientists understand which polymers can be melted down and mixed to form useful polymer blends. Currently, less than 10% of polymers are recycled, so determining the degree of compatibility of different components can help in designing strategies for reprocessing and in evaluating the usefulness of the resulting material.
Neutrons could also help us unravel the structure
and dynamics of complex multicomponent systems (e.g.,
to sort out the processes for melting down hazardous
wastes that best separate out toxic metals and yield
commercial products).
In addition, research at SNS could guide the construction
of membranes that collect valuable chemicals in wastes
for reuse later. For example, a
contaminated soil may be washed with a solution that
strips away not only its contaminants but also its
fertility. Improved separation technologies will
use techniques that remove only the contaminant during
soil washing.
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