Status and perspectives of the neutron time-of-flight facility n_TOF at CERN

Chiaveri, E.*; Aberle, O.*; Alcayne, V.*; Kimura, Atsushi   ; 124 of others*

Since the start of its operation in 2001, the neutron time of-flight facility of CERN, n_TOF, has become one of the most forefront neutron facilities in the world for wide-energy spectrum neutron cross section measurements. Thanks to the combination of excellent neutron energy resolution and high instantaneous neutron flux available in the two experimental areas, the second of which has been constructed in 2014, n_TOF is providing a wealth of new data on neutron-induced reactions of interest for nuclear astrophysics, advanced nuclear technologies and medical applications. In this document the main characteristics of the n_TOF facility and their relevance for neutron studies in the different areas of research will be outlined. In addition, the future perspectives of the facility will be described including the upgrade of the spallation target, the setup of an imaging installation and the construction of a new irradiation area.