Speaker
Description
Accelerator applications generate substantial socio-economic impact across a broad range of topics and challenges of global importance. However, while accelerator investments require direct monetary contributions from a discrete number of investors, resulting socio-economic benefits are often broadly distributed and not naturally monetized. Hence, the return on investment in accelerators is not always clear or straightforward to communicate.
Varied and innovative approaches are needed to assess the economic returns to accelerator-based techniques since applications can cover almost any area of life. Applicable economic impact estimation methods include market analysis, benefits transfers, and stated or revealed preference methods. A mixed-methods approach fills quantitative data gaps with qualitative inputs, while threshold assessments and impact scenarios clarify the influence of modelling assumptions on study results.
Under a cooperative agreement from NIST, RTI conducted an economic impact assessment of U.S. federal neutron scattering research facilities, including both reactors and accelerators. Here, we present the results of four case studies of technologies influenced by neutron scattering research: hard drives, aircraft, weight loss medications, and electric vehicles. The studies demonstrate innovative approaches to estimating the benefits of complex research with cross-cutting applications. Standardized impact case studies of accelerator-based techniques can communicate the socio-economic benefits of accelerators worldwide.
