March 11, 2026
Designing Materials That Defy Heat Flow
Linking simple physical rules, machine learning and neutron spectroscopy to discover crystals with record-low thermal conductivity
Energy
Among the many valuable properties of neutrons, there is one that really lights up the energy sector! Their sensitivity to light atoms such as hydrogen, lithium and oxygen places neutrons firmly at the forefront of the exploration of the complex materials used in the energy sector. From batteries and fuel cells to nuclear power and renewable energies, neutrons open up new opportunities to investigate matter and transform the world of energy.
Feb. 12, 2026
Cooling without gases: molecular design brings solid-state cooling closer to reality
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.
Nov. 14, 2025
Two NEPHEWS Twinning participants on the IN1-Lagrange spectrometer at the ILL
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…
Nov. 7, 2025
Neutrons for the energy transition
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.
Sept. 4, 2025
How batteries breathe
Neutron imaging provides real-time insights into the next generation of battery technology
July 28, 2025
Turbocharging solid-state battery research: Real-time insights unlocked by new sample cell
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).