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Neutrons take a glimpse inside the molecular structure of plant-based foods

A recently published study makes an important contribution to our understanding of the physiological processing of plant-based foods. The results of this work can be used to optimise production, improving the digestibility of plant proteins and thus the nutritional value of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

A recent study, published in Science and Technology of Advanced Materials, and conducted at the Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL), utilised polarised neutron scattering on the D33 instrument to explore skyrmions. This research provided crucial microscopic insights into these magnetic structures. The D33 instrument's unique ability to combine high magnetic fields and  polarised neutrons was essential for understanding skyrmion phase transitions. The findings  can enhance the development of skyrmion-based spintronic devices, which promise lower energy consumption and higher data storage efficiency. The study's methodologies can be applied to other magnetic materials, aiding in the discovery of new phenomena and the development of advanced magnetic materials.

ILL's instruments play a crucial role in disentangling complex protein crystallisation pathways.

Recently published findings from experiments carried out at the ILL and at SINQ confirm monochromatic small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) as the definitive go-to method to characterise multiband superconductivity in a material.

This prestigious award recognises von Klitzing’s remarkable contributions in soft matter physics and her pioneering use of neutrons to unravel complex interface phenomena – in particular through experiments at the ILL.

Foams are highly complex systems, and an essential component of many different drinks and foods. Collaboration between the ILL and Aarhus University has connected unique capabilities to investigate foam with critically relevant food science challenges, bringing a greener food future a step closer.

From drug delivery to the development of responsive materials, self-assembled supramolecular structures have many applications. Understanding their organisation and reaction to external parameters is key. In a new study, researchers explore the effect of high pressures taking full advantage of ILL’s leadership in this domain.

Magnetic skyrmions are unique magnetic structures. A breakthrough has been achieved through neutron scattering techniques, revealing the presence of hybrid skyrmion phases. Skyrmion-based magnonic crystals offer promising possibilities in signal processing and communication

30 November 2022 Foam structural evolution as seen by SANS and optical imaging. Front cover of the 46th issue of the Soft Matter journal. Credit: S.Monfront, ILL Foams are everywhere, in food, beverages, detergents and cosmetics, as well as industrial processes such as recycling, oil recovery and firefighting. There is thus significant interest in the d…

Schematic, cross-sectional view of a PEM fuel cell. Hydrogen fuel is channelled to the anode, while oxygen from air is channelled to the cathode. At the anode, hydrogen is split into protons (H+) and electrons (e-). The PEM allows the protons to cross to the cathode, while the electrons travel vi…

Neutrons help investigating the impact of alkanes, which could have allowed the first life to emerge around deep-sea hydrothermal vents.