Your Experiment——Frequently Asked Questions
About Project Application
Q: How can I obtain beamtime at the Hefei Light Source?
A: First, register as a user on the CAS Major Science and Technology Infrastructure Shared Platform (http://lssf.cas.cn). Then, select the Hefei Light Source facility and submit a project application as prompted. Once approved, beamtime will be granted.
Q: Can students apply for projects?
A: No, only staff members are eligible to apply.
Q: Is there a fee for beamtime?
A: Fees are only charged for commercial purposes where results are not publicly disclosed. All other uses are free of charge.
Q: How long is the beamtime valid?
A: Two years.
Q: When is the project application period?
A: Applications are accepted year-round. It is recommended to submit applications in the first ten days of each quarter or after receiving a call for proposals.
Q: Where should the signature and seal be placed on the hard copy of the project application?
A: They can be placed on the cover page or in a blank space on the first page.
About Experiments
Q: How can I schedule an experiment after the project is approved?
A: Please submit your beamtime request and preferred dates through the online system.
Q: Will beamline staff be available to assist during experiments?
A: Yes. Professional staff will be available to provide guidance and support.
Q: Are users required to conduct the experiments themselves?
A: Yes, users are expected to operate the equipment. For specialized or complex experiments, beamline operation staff will provide assistance as needed.
Q: Should samples be prepared in advance?
A: Yes, all samples must be prepared prior to your scheduled experiment.
Q: Do I need to register in advance to enter the experimental facility?
A: No. Personnel listed on the approved experiment can enter directly by scanning the QR code at the facility entrance.
Q: How do I check in before my experiment and collect necessary equipment? How do I return items after the experiment?
A: Please use the user terminal in the storage ring hall and follow the system instructions for both check-in/equipment collection and return procedures.
Q: What should I do if I hear an alarm in the experimental hall?
A: Immediately close the beamline valve following standard operating procedures and evacuate the experimental area promptly.
Other Questions
Q: Are there any recommended options for meals and accommodation during the experiment?
A: For meals, the Hefei Light Source provides meal vouchers for up to three people at the USTC staff canteen. For accommodation, you may stay at the on-campus guesthouse or partner hotels near the laboratory.
Q: Can I eat or drink in the experiment area?
A: No. Please use the designated common areas for all food and drinks.
Q: Are emergency first-aid kits available for users?
A: Yes. Contact us if you need.
Q: What training is required before conducting experiments?
A: Radiation safety and protection training, as well as relevant beamline operation training.
Q: How long is the safety training certificate valid?
A: Six months.
Q: What should I do if the terminal system shows that I failed the safety exam?
A: Retake the exam and submit it again.