News

Linking simple physical rules, machine learning and neutron spectroscopy to discover crystals with record-low thermal conductivity

A recent study shows that small molecular modifications can make barocaloric materials respond more reliably under pressure, supporting the development of solid-state cooling technologies without climate-damaging refrigerant gases.

The NEPHEWS Twinning Programme gives researchers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with neutron experiments at the ILL and to learn directly from beamline scientists. Participants benefit from short placements that combine observation, practical training, and guidance on how to integrate neutron techniques into their own research.Two recent participants took part in experiments on the I…

Incorporating specifically tuned MOFs in a polymer membrane significantly enhances carbon dioxyde-methane separation performance, key in biogas purification. Neutron scattering measurements at ILL’s instrument IN1/Lagrange unveil the reasons why.

Neutron imaging provides real-time insights into the next generation of battery technology

Solid-state battery research has just been turbocharged by the development of the first sample cell that unlocks the unique real-time insights of operando neutron diffraction at the ILL. This major advancement is the result of a collaborative effort between the ILL and LEPMI laboratory in Grenoble within the framework of the OpInSolid project funded by the French National Research Agency (ANR).

Ionic conduction is a key processes in energy materials. Understanding it in detail is essential for developing more performant batteries and fuel cells. A recent article provides a tutorial and research review on the role of neutrons in advancing the field.

Researchers designed novel membranes to extract precious lithium ions from brine solutions and used neutrons to obtain a deeper understanding of their mechanism

A novel porous material capable of separating deuterium from hydrogen at a temperature of 120 K (-153°C) has been introduced. This opens a pathway for sustainable industrial-scale isotope separation using existing liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure.

Using ILL's neutron imaging instrument NeXT, researchers were able to visualise how different fuel cells manage their only reactant product: water. This study demonstrates the uniquely important role of neutrons in the design of tomorrow's energy conversion technologies.

Energy-resolved neutron experiments provide insights into novel energy technologies

The replacement of fossil fuels with renewable energy is a key requirement to achieve climate neutrality in Europe by 2050. Energy storage systems are a crucial technology for this global energy transition due to the intermittent nature of renewables. A recent publication – describing a biomimetic energy storage system inspired by the structure of naturally-occurring methane hydrate – highlights the unique contribution of neutrons to help tackle this societal challenge and advance towards a sustainable future.