RELAX opens the door to large-scale research
With RELAX, KTH is lowering the barriers for researchers who want to use large experimental facilities and take advantage of X-rays, neutrons, and muons. The initiative offers practical support, expert knowledge, funding, and opportunities for collaboration both within Sweden and internationally.
RELAX is a new strategic effort at KTH, designed to facilitate the use of large-scale research facilities like synchrotrons, free-electron lasers, neutron sources, and muon sources – techniques that provide researchers with opportunities to probe the structure and behaviour of materials at the deepest levels.
The initiative is led by Martin Månsson, Associate Professor of Applied Physics and Neutron Scattering.
“In recent years, Sweden has made significant investments in large-scale research infrastructure, including the MAX IV synchrotron and the ESS neutron sources. Sweden is also a partner in several international facilities, such as PETRA III, ISIS, and ILL. With RELAX, it will become easier for KTH researchers to use these facilities and participate in international collaborations,” he says.
Martin Månsson explains that large experimental facilities are essential for the understanding of new quantum materials.
”Many quantum properties can only be studied directly using these state-of-the-art methods. These techniques offer a resolution that lets us uniquely examine materials and components at the atomic or even subatomic scale, under extreme conditions such as ultra-low temperatures, high magnetic fields, and high pressures,” he says.
RELAX offers support with beamtime applications, training, expertise, and funding. This support is available to new users and can also be used to invite international experts to KTH. The initiative collaborates with other Swedish programmes and research centres connected to major facilities, helping to strengthen cooperation and knowledge exchange.
“RELAX also connects researchers with KTH experts who can provide advice on everything from project feasibility to the choice of source and instrument,” says Martin Månsson.
Learn more about RELAX: www.kth.se/relax
By: Alexandra von Kern