SRF Accelerator Research and Development

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright visited Fermilab recently to see firsthand how the lab is advancing American leadership in fundamental science, artificial intelligence and quantum research. During his tour, he explored cutting-edge projects and praised Fermilab’s commitment to understanding the structure of the universe.

The coldbox, a vital piece of Fermilab’s new linear accelerator, is on a two-month voyage from France to its new home in Batavia, Illinois. It will be at the heart of the cryogenic system for the lab’s upgraded accelerator complex.

Particle accelerator beams can create significant damage to the targets used to generate particles for experiments. Researchers are designing targets to withstand material degradation from radiation damage, shock from thermal expansion and material fatigue — all caused by accelerated protons.