ECHIR-A neutron beamline at ESS for neutron irradiation of electronics needed by industry

Important results from the project

The project achieved its goals by delivering a complete and well‑founded proposal for ECHIR, including a detailed business case, technical design, and advanced dose simulations demonstrating feasibility and compliance with ESS requirements. It also strengthened collaboration with ESS and industry. An additional key result was the strong industrial engagement, documented through support letters and endorsement signatures, providing solid legitimacy and a strong basis for the next phase.

Expected long term effects

In the long term, the project is expected to support the establishment of a strategically important EU infrastructure for radiation testing of electronics. This will strengthen industry’s ability to develop and qualify components and systems resilient to radiation, enhance Europe’s technological autonomy, and improve supply‑chain security in the semiconductor sector. The strong industrial engagement also provides a solid foundation for a stable user base and the continued development of ECHIR.

Approach and implementation

The project was carried out in close collaboration between UU, ESS, and several industrial partners. The technical design was developed at UU, while the simulation work was done by a PhD student from the Helsinki, which strengthened the academic quality of the project. Weekly meetings with industry and experts contributed significantly to the project’s quality and helped shape the facility’s requirement list. More ESS experts joined later in the project, adding technical strength.