drtsans: The data reduction toolkit for small-angle neutron scattering at Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Abstract

Data reduction is a critical step in a small-angle neutron scattering experiment. It corrects the data for instrument-specific artefacts, making it ready for analysis, interpretation, as well as for comparison against data collected with different small-angle neutron scattering instruments. Here, the drtsans software package developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory for data reduction for the EQ-SANS, GP-SANS, and Bio-SANS instruments, which are located at the Spallation Neutron Source and High Flux Isotope Reactor, is described. The software and the rigorous development methods employed have positively impacted the scientific programs on the three SANS instruments.