# Neutron source BER II

> research reactor in Berlin

**Wikidata**: [Q821507](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q821507)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/neutron-source-ber-ii

## Summary
Neutron source BER II was a research reactor in Berlin, Germany, operated by the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB). It was decommissioned in 2020 after serving as a key facility for neutron scattering research and materials science.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: Research reactor
- **Location**: Steglitz-Zehlendorf, Germany
- **Operator**: Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB)
- **Nominal Power Output**: 10 megawatts
- **Decommissioned**: January 1, 2020
- **Aliases**: BER II, BER I, Atomreaktor Wannsee, Forschungsreaktor Wannsee
- **Coordinates**: 52.4097° N, 13.1283° E
- **Primary Use**: Neutron scattering research and materials science
- **Website**: [Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin - BER II](https://www.helmholtz-berlin.de/forschung/quellen/ber/index_de.html)

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Neutron source BER II?
A: BER II was a research reactor used for neutron scattering experiments and materials science research, particularly in physics and chemistry.

### Q: When was BER II decommissioned?
A: BER II was decommissioned on January 1, 2020, after nearly 50 years of operation.

### Q: Where is BER II located?
A: BER II was located in Steglitz-Zehlendorf, Berlin, Germany.

### Q: What was the power output of BER II?
A: BER II had a nominal power output of 10 megawatts.

### Q: Who operated BER II?
A: BER II was operated by the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB), a research institute in Germany.

## Why It Matters
Neutron source BER II played a crucial role in advancing materials science and physics research in Germany. As a high-flux reactor, it provided essential neutron beams for studying the structure and properties of materials, contributing to breakthroughs in fields such as superconductivity, magnetism, and biochemistry. Its decommissioning marked the end of an era for neutron scattering research in Berlin, though its legacy continues through ongoing collaborations and data analysis. The facility was part of the Helmholtz Association’s network of research centers, reinforcing Germany’s position as a leader in scientific infrastructure.

## Notable For
- **High-Flux Neutron Source**: BER II was one of the most intense neutron sources in Europe, enabling detailed material analysis.
- **Materials Science Contributions**: It supported research on superconductors, magnetic materials, and biological systems.
- **Historical Significance**: As one of Germany’s oldest research reactors, it was a cornerstone of scientific research in Berlin.
- **Decommissioning Transition**: Its closure highlighted the challenges of maintaining aging nuclear research facilities.
- **Collaborative Research**: BER II fostered international partnerships in neutron scattering and materials science.

## Body
### Overview
BER II was a 10-megawatt research reactor located in Berlin, Germany, operated by the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB). It was decommissioned in 2020 after decades of service, marking the end of an era for neutron scattering research in the region.

### Historical Context
Originally known as the Atomreaktor Wannsee, BER II was part of Germany’s early nuclear research program. It was later renamed BER II and became a key facility for neutron scattering experiments, supporting both academic and industrial research.

### Technical Specifications
- **Power Output**: 10 MW
- **Neutron Flux**: High enough to support advanced materials science research
- **Location**: Steglitz-Zehlendorf, Berlin
- **Coordinates**: 52.4097° N, 13.1283° E

### Research Impact
BER II contributed to breakthroughs in superconductivity, magnetism, and biochemistry. Its neutron beams were used to study the atomic and molecular structure of materials, aiding in the development of new technologies.

### Decommissioning
On January 1, 2020, BER II was permanently shut down. The decision reflected the need to phase out aging nuclear research facilities while preserving the scientific legacy of the reactor.

### Legacy
Despite its closure, BER II’s data and research continue to influence ongoing studies in neutron scattering and materials science. The Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin remains committed to advancing scientific research in its place.