A groundbreaking project led by Focused Energy is developing the world’s first laser-driven neutron source for industrial applications. The innovative Laser-Driven Radiation Source (LDRS) technology is designed to inspect large and complex objects, such as thick steel or concrete walls, without causing any damage.
The joint research project, named PLANET, involves collaboration between the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT in Aachen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Photonis Germany, TRUMPF, and TU Darmstadt. RWE has provided facilities at its Biblis site, while the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research has contributed €20 million in funding.
The Laser-Driven Radiation Source (LDRS) technology allows for non-destructive examination not just through thick steel or concrete walls, but also deep within them. This cutting-edge project involves key partners such as the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT in Aachen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Photonis Germany, TRUMPF, and TU Darmstadt, with RWE providing facilities at the Biblis site. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research is backing the initiative with €20 million in funding.
The PLANET project aims to develop a laser-based neutron source by integrating various components from the partners and demonstrating its use for non-invasive inspections of nuclear waste containers. The LDRS technology, pioneered by Focused Energy, is the first non-destructive method capable of examining large structures like bridges, shipping containers, and tightly sealed units from the outside. Traditionally, these inspections required massive particle accelerators to produce neutron beams, which were impractical for many uses. LDRS offers a more compact and affordable solution, functioning like an advanced X-ray system that reveals fine structural details and material compositions.
The breakthrough in this technology lies in the neutron source powered by a high-energy laser. Unlike conventional accelerators, the laser drives ions towards a converter, which generates neutrons through particle reactions. The PLANET project includes several interconnected sub-projects, with partners TRUMPF, Fraunhofer ILT, and Focused Energy developing a high-power laser capable of firing 100 times per second at a self-renewing target created by Focused Energy and TU Darmstadt. This laser achieves the same particle acceleration over a few millimeters that conventional accelerators need hundreds of meters for. Focused Energy, in collaboration with HZDR, ensures stable and reproducible particle beam production, which is then converted into directed neutrons and X-rays for inspecting the interior of various components and containers.
Photonis Germany is working on a large-area, highly sensitive detector to capture these neutron and X-ray emissions, producing high-resolution images much like conventional radiology. Focused Energy, acting as the system integrator, applies its patented LDRS process to analyze the data and determine the composition and condition of the examined containers. This marks the first time a compact, high-power neutron source can be used on-site.
RWE is providing a facility at the former Biblis nuclear power plant, which will be transformed by Focused Energy into a research center and the pilot installation for this innovative technology. TRUMPF is a leading high-tech company providing advanced manufacturing solutions in the fields of machine tools and laser technology.
It plays a pivotal role in enhancing digital connectivity in manufacturing through a comprehensive range of consulting services, platform products, and software solutions. As one of the top innovators and market leaders, TRUMPF specializes in highly flexible machine tools for sheet metal processing and is a major force in industrial laser technology.
In the 2023/24 fiscal year, TRUMPF employed around 18,550 people and reported sales of approximately €5.2 billion, according to preliminary figures. The company operates globally with about 90 subsidiaries, covering nearly all of Europe, along with North America, South America, and Asia.
TRUMPF’s manufacturing footprint spans several countries, including Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, the Czech Republic, the U.S., Mexico, and China. With its cutting-edge technology and expansive global presence, TRUMPF continues to drive innovation and efficiency in manufacturing, making significant contributions to industries worldwide.
