Environment

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.

Neutron research could lead to improved separation technologies for removing contaminants from waste streams and soils while retaining the valuable chemicals for reuse.

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.