The project consists of two closely linked parts:

1. The planned option to extend the NECTAR beamline to provide an additional thermal neutron spectrum for tomographic and other radiation experiments. This makes it possible to carry out combined tomographic investigations on a sample both with high-energy as well as with thermal neutrons and to complete the spectrum together with the cold neutrons at the ANTARES facility.

2. The further development and application of the methodology to use the data obtained with thermal and fast neutrons in a combined evaluation process.

Within the framework of this project application, in-situ investigations of lithium ion cells and battery systems are of primary interest. The newly created experimental stations serve to elucidate fatigue mechanisms and contribute to the development of improved energy storage systems. This is particularly important for the life-cycle modeling of batteries in electric vehicles with regard to the establishment of possible "second-life" applications and the failure scenarios of utmost importance for electric mobility and sustainable energy technology. The extension of the neutron energy range to thermal neutrons available on the SR10 beam port is, however, also of interest to other groups since the thermal option allows combined experiments on NECTAR which would otherwise have to be carried out on two separate instruments. The planned thermal option fulfills all requirements, which are currently regarded as "state-of-the-art" for such systems. Incorporating the thermal option into the operation of the already existing system with fast neutrons not only leads to a unique combination of the two energy spectra world-wide, but also many, sometimes cost-intensive points, are covered by the already existing infrastructure.