ISIS Science Highlights

Science Highlights

Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Browse all science highlights articles from ISIS Neutron and Muon Source below. Alternatively you can browse Science Highlights by subject area or Science Highlights by instrument or view our news and Science Highlights RSS feed here.

Being hydrated is key for electrolyte materials in low temperature fuel cells
A team from the universities of Warwick, Nottingham and Monash, and ISIS, have found that keeping a fuel cell electrolyte humid improves its low temperature conductivity.
The benefit of calcium ions to water treatment processes.
A recent paper published by a team from ISIS, Sydney Water (Australia) and Technische Universität Berlin has analysed the role of Ca2+ when using polyelectrolytes in the removal of humic substances from natural water.
Improving AI reliability for space and safety-critical applications
Deep learning is a critical factor in the safety of automotive and aerospace applications. Neutron experiments on ChipIr can help improve their reliability and prevent failures in the field.
Understanding the ageing mechanism of batteries to improve cycle life at high temperature
Echion Technologies Ltd, a battery technology spinout company from the University of Cambridge, used neutron diffraction and mass spectrometry to achieve greater insight into battery cycle life and help improve performance and material endurance.
Protecting farmers’ eyes from pesticides
Researchers from University of Manchester and Syngenta visited our OFFSPEC beamline to investigate the interaction between pesticides and corneal cell membrane which results in irritation of the eye. 
Antimicrobial peptides target the weak spot of enveloped viruses
Research conducted on ZOOM by a team from ISIS, the University of Fribourg in Switzerland, and Nanyang Technological University in Singapore could help prevent future epidemics.
Thermodynamically reversible chemical looping memory reactor on POLARIS
The team responsible for the first ever memory reactor visited POLARIS to examine its working structure using neutrons.
How water dynamics could be a new cancer biomarker
Researchers from the University of Coimbra have collaborated with researchers at ISIS to improve understanding of the normal-to-cancer transition by studying the dynamics of intracellular water during this process.
How neutron diffraction could tell us how to make the best cup of coffee
Researchers from the Università degli Studi di Roma Tre have used neutron diffraction to investigate the structure of bioactive trigonelline, one of the most important components in coffee, to improve extraction techniques.
Neutron reflectometry uncovers how proteins stabilise interactions between cell membranes
A collaborative effort from the Universities of Birmingham, Oxford and ISIS has revealed that the PqiC lipoprotein helps to stabilise interactions between cell membranes, paving the way for future discoveries in membrane biochemistry.
MuX Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using MuX here.
Pressure turns graphite to diamond and glyphosate to...
Professor Simon Parsons and PhD student Cameron Wilson from The Chemistry department at the University of Edinburgh visited PEARL to study phase behaviour in glyphosate.
Neutron scattering unveils detailed analysis of nanoscale building blocks which could benefit the study of biomaterials
A collaborative effort led by the University of Leeds using neutron scattering to provide detailed analysis of nanoscale building blocks, which could offer significant impact in the study of biomaterials.
Using muons to test lithium-ore materials to improve the understanding of their structure for future battery technologies
As part of our Facility Development Student program, PhD student Matilda Rhodes is working on lithium ore materials, using muons to examine their structure which could, in turn, enable better extraction techniques.
Lighter Compounds to Encourage the use of Hydrogen as a Vehicle Fuel
A team from Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon used SANDALS to analyse the structure of an amide-based hydrogen storage material with the aim of optimising its reaction kinetics.
Discovering the craftmanship secrets behind early Iron Age bronze artefacts
Neutron imaging and diffraction reveals the hidden secrets behind the manufacturing techniques of Sardinian craftmanship from the early Iron Age
A comparison of beam testing and fault injection to predict soft errors
Data obtained at ChipIr on the soft errors rate of Arm microprocessors hardware was compared to earlier estimations by microarchitectural fault injection to examine the accuracy of this method.
Strain could have massive potential to squeeze new information out of quantum materials
A collaborative effort has resulted in a new technique to investigate quantum materials, combining strain tuning with neutron and X-ray scattering
Using neutrons to understand the skin barrier
Researchers from Leiden University in the Netherlands have come to ISIS to improve understanding of the molecular differences between diseased and healthy skin.
The Top 10 Publications of 2023!
Let's look back at some of the most popular ISIS research to celebrate another year of exciting research.
Muons could shed light on the economy of the Dark Ages.
A team from the US and UK analysed the composition of a collection of ~70 coins with the hope of learning more about the economy of King Eadberht’s reign.
Measuring 15th century gold samples from the Baptistery Gates of Florence
A long-term collaboration using our muon facility continues to reveal fascinating insights into the manufacture of one of the famous depictions of the Old Testament.
The Impact of Pressure on Pharmaceutical Cocrystal Structures
Synchrotron and neutron diffraction was used to study the effects of pressure on hydrogen bonding in pharmaceutical cocrystals.
Investigating sodium-ion diffusion for renewable energy sources based on Prussian blue analogues (PBAs)
A team of researchers used EMU to understand the process of ion diffusion by examining battery materials at the microscopic level.
Measuring strain limit of 2G HTS tape to optimise for industrial magnet coils
ENGIN-X has been used to study mechanical stress applied to 2G HTS tape, which is present in MRI and the electrical grid.
Preserving Paper Artworks: Use of Hydrogels and Microgels for Cleaning
A comparison of hydrogel dynamics, in the presence of calcium ions, is contributing to a larger project to optimise microgels for the purpose of cleaning paper artworks.
Neutron imaging offers a view of catalysis in real-time
A recent study of hydrogen adsorption and absorption within a packed Pd/C catalyst has demonstrated the potential of neutron imaging to capture catalytic hydrogenation unfolding in real time.
A new generation of anticancer drugs
Researchers from University of Warwick are developing a new generation of organometallic anticancer drugs.
Evaluating charged particle spectra could reduce errors in designing essential computing and memory devices
A team of researchers from RIKEN, KEK and the Universities of Kyushu, Osaka, and Tokyo have collaborated on evaluating the vulnerability of semiconducting devices to avoid future errors.
Sugar could be the answer to stabilising protein-based drugs for the pharmaceutical industry
NIMROD and Iris have been used to improve understanding of the effect of sugars, sucrose and trehalose, on protein stabilization.
Tracking carbon capture & utilisation in real time
An international collaboration between academia and industry have designed and successfully tested a new experimental setup for the capture, conversion and utilisation of carbon dioxide.
You’ve got nano-mail. The role of SANS in lipid nanocarriers
Researchers from Prof Molly Stevens’ group at Imperial College London and Karolinska Institute with scientists from ISIS have exploited several techniques to gain structural understanding of lipid-based particles to support their clinical applications.
Nature Knows Best- how the use of geometry in biology could be applied to materials science
Geometry in biological molecules could be exploited to aid development of bio-inspired materials.
Microbes may offer a sustainable alternative to dairy
In the quest to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, researchers are analysing the structure of casein micelles with the aim of formulating milk produced by microbial fermentation.
Can thermoelectric tetrahedrite stand the heat?
The mineral tetrahedrite has been identified as an incipient ionic conductor, a new class of material suitable for stable and high-performance thermoelectric devices.
Improving Silicon Solar Cell Efficiency by Measuring Carrier Lifetimes
A team of researchers from the University of Warwick have returned to ISIS Neutron and Muon Source to continue their research on carrier recombination centres in silicon.
War leftovers and cancer therapies meet neutron techniques
Toxic leftovers from the world wars were studied alongside cancer therapy techniques on Vesuvio by researchers from Jagiellonian University in Poland
Could the first synthetic pigment be on a revival tour?
Researchers from the Aveiro Institute of Materials and ISIS created a new model of cuproriviate, commonly known as Egyptian Blue, through experimental and computational methods.
Nile Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using Nile here.
Inelastic Neutron Scattering contributing to the development of more sustainable catalysts
Inelastic neutron spectroscopy has been used to probe the location of defects in manganese oxide nanoparticles, with hopes the findings will contribute to the optimization of catalyst synthesis.
How hydrogels could turn the tide in the treatment of HIV
SANS facilities at ISIS and ILL are being used to develop HIV treatment gels.
How cooking emissions from olive oil could provide valuable insight for development of models for the air we breathe
Research into the molecular arrangement of olive oil droplets could aid the development of models for the atmosphere which can be used to advise government policies.
Cycle Highlights - Summer 2023
As always, this ISIS experimental cycle has been an incredible, varied display of scientific experiments! Let us take a look back at some of the work our users were investigating this time…
Neutrons for catalysis: accelerating progress to Net Zero
A recent review explains how advances in neutron scattering are enabling the design of new catalysts to address the decarbonisation challenge.
First neutrons for the MIGDAL experiment at ISIS
The Migdal In Galactic Dark mAtter expLoration (MIGDAL) experiment, led by the STFC Particle Physics Department and Imperial College London, was constructed at Nile in May 2023 to support dark matter searches involving the so-called ‘Migdal’ effect.
Combining Neutron Bragg edge imaging and tomography could hold key to directly assessing residual strain
Researchers used IMAT to carry out neutron Bragg edge imaging for tomographic reconstruction of residual strain.
Piecing together the Proton Puzzle
Muons have caused a conundrum to particle physicists across the globe, bringing into question what the radius of a proton is. An international group are using the ISIS muon beamline to help solve this puzzle.
Nafion and the electron beam conundrum
Combining four experimental techniques, a team from the universities of Swansea and New South Wales investigate the effects of electron beam patterning on Nafion films.
Investigating bone damage and tumour tactics
How does cancer affect our bones? Researchers from the University of Coimbra brought six specimens of human bone to the ISIS spectrometers to investigate.
Just a lick of anti-corrosion eco-friendly paint
Recent users on Larmor have been watching paint dry to see how it’s structure changes in different environments, ultimately to see how best to sustainably protect metals from corrosion.
A textbook example of quantum mechanics: the 3He@C60 endofullerene viewed through a neutron scattering lens
Neutron scattering provides valuable insights into the energy levels, excitations, and interactions of 3He@C60 endofullerene, enabling a deeper understanding of its quantum behaviour within the confined space of the fullerene cage.
Testing spacecraft circuit board endurance from across the Atlantic
A team from Brigham Young University (BYU), USA visited ISIS this cycle, to test complex computer processor and memory systems used in spacecraft computers, to achieve a better understanding as to how they fail and how to make them more reliable.
Society Impact Award 2023
Royal Holloway’s Professor Martin King has been awarded the societal impact award by the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council’s ISIS neutron and muon source for his work investigating real-world atmospheric pollutants using neutron reflectometry.
Economic Impact Award 2023
The winner of the economic award is Timothy Johnson from Johnson Matthey, for their work demonstrating the viability of a scalable route to synthesising gas storage materials.
Artworks and manuscripts at ISIS; protecting our view of history.
Samples of painting canvases and parchment were brought to IMAT ISIS by researchers from the universities of Toronto and London (Birkbeck) to test out their conservation methods inspired by nature.
Exotic magnetic phase could put next-generation computing on an upward spiral
Experimental evidence of rare magnetic behaviour in LiYbO2 will help to open the door to a new family of materials with potential applications in spintronics, quantum computing and more.
Understanding programmed cell death – crucial to the body’s prevention of cancer
Through both static and time-resolved neutron reflectometry at ISIS, a Swedish/UK research collaboration have been able to reveal the molecular mechanism of the first stage of cell death.
Meteorite or meteor-wrong?
An Italian research collaboration has developed a new approach to characterise stony meteorites to investigate the formation of the solar system.
Discovering new glass-forming iron MOFs
During a placement with ISIS, PhD student Rasmus Christensen carried out some experiments that were key to characterising a new type of metal organic framework.
Studying battery cycling on the beamline
During his PhD with the University of Sheffield, ISIS facility development student Innes McClelland developed a cell for testing battery materials during their operation using muon spectroscopy and used it to study an increasingly vital cathode material.
MuX publications
A list of publications from the MuX instrument. If your paper is missing then please email us!
Looking inside the TS1 hydrogen moderator
Using IMAT, ISIS engineers have been able to image the inside of the new TS1 hydrogen moderator, to ensure it is operating correctly.
Mummified lizard offerings brought to ISIS
Ancient Egyptian lizard coffins from the British Museum were brought to ISIS to investigate their contents with neutron imaging.
MuX
The MuX spectrometer is a general-purpose instrument for elemental analysis using negative muons.
Science Impact Award 2023
The winner of the science award is Dr Minu Kim from the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, for their work investigating a new class of superconductor.
Cycle Highlights!
During our last cycle the users were pulling out all the stops in every corner of science. Here are just a few select highlights of the research we have had going on at the facility during the last couple of months.
Designing metal-organic frameworks to host quantum magnetic phases
A chemical design route has been identified towards creating a host material for the theoretically predicted but experimentally unrealised S = 2 Haldane phase, a prototypical topological state of matter.
A structural insight into solar cell performance
By combining neutron and X-ray experiments with molecular dynamics, researchers from the University of Colorado and their collaborators have determined the structure of promising new solar cell materials and how this links to their usable lifetime.
Building on the success of mercury capture to drive change in the petroleum industry
This case study is part of a set reflecting the impact of ISIS science reported as part of the UK Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).
Automating data analysis for vibrational spectroscopy - using AI for chemical identification
An artificial intelligence model that identifies the structure of a molecule from its infrared spectrum has been developed by PhD students Guwon Jung and Son Gyo Jung with their supervisor Jacqui Cole.
From mentoring to radiation testing
After being paired with ISIS beamline scientist Carlo Cazzaniga on an internal mentoring scheme, Rebecca Harwin from STFC’s RAL Space realised that the ChipIr instrument could be helpful in her work testing satellite components.
X-ray robot tested for use on Engin-X
As part of an STFC Cross-Cluster Proof-of-Concept grant, the company Stress-Space Ltd has been testing the feasibility of using an X-ray robot on Engin-X to carry out simultaneous neutron and X-ray diffraction measurements on engineering components.
Designing a new drug delivery system for treating a global disease
A promising treatment for Leishmaniasis has been investigated using neutron scattering on Larmor.
Semiconductors
One of five critical technologies highlighted by the new UK Science and Technology Framework, semiconductors are a class of electronic materials with unique properties that sit at the heart of the devices and technology we use every day.
Cold Snap
Join our cryogenics team on a video journey as they venture into one of the coldest systems in the universe - a dilution refrigerator.
ISIS and the UK Government's Quantum Strategy
With the UK government announcing its first ever quantum strategy, the neutron and muon user community is continuing to research the materials needed for these technologies to be applied more widely.
100 publications for ChipIr
The ISIS chip irradiation beamline has now been used in over 100 published studies since it came online in 2017
Studying the influence of salts on α-synuclein aggregation, a hallmark of Parkinson’s disease
Researchers from the universities of Cambridge, Antwerp and Leeds have found that the mobility of water, and the salts that impact its mobility, is a key factor in protein aggregation.
Sticky slime studied using SANS
Velvet worms create projectile slime to defend themselves and catch their prey. Using small angle neutron scattering, researchers have been able to look inside the slime and study its structure.
A Spaghetti Special on SANS-2D!
Researchers from the ESS and RWTH Aachen University experiment with gluten-free spaghetti to uncover its nanostructure.
Applied Graphene Materials plc
This case study is part of a set reflecting the impact of ISIS science reported as part of the UK Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).
Using neutrons to find out how antimicrobial peptides kill bacteria
A team from the University of Manchester have used neutron reflectometry at ISIS and ILL to investigate how antimicrobial peptides kill bacteria.
Beyond the linear spin wave theory
Dr Harry Lane, who was an ISIS facility development PhD student from Edinburgh University, has produced new tools to effectively model unconventional magnetic excitations.
The top 10 most talked about ISIS papers of 2022
2022 is complete! Let’s take a look back at the ISIS research that got the highest engagement over the last year to celebrate all the scientific leaps and bounds that ISIS contributed to.
Exploring the concept of octahedral spin ices
ISIS scientists have used computational modelling to investigate whether a spin ice can be formed in a material that takes an octahedral geometry.
Solving the stability issue of heat-storage materials to reduce fuel poverty
Developing longer-lasting electronics for electric vehicles
Thanks to Newton funding through the Malaysia-British Council agreement, Associate Professor Dr Mohd Arif Anuar Mohd Salleh and his research team from the Universiti Malaysia Perlis have come to use IMAT to study materials for use in electric vehicles.
Extreme toughness at ultra-cold temperatures
Using Engin-X, researchers have characterised a new class of alloy that is amongst the toughest ever recorded, even at very low temperatures.
Siemens Energy use Engin-X to test a new gas turbine production method
Neutron diffraction was used to study the microstructure of samples produced using laser powder bed fusion, while they were being compressed.
Using neutrons to understand atmospheric aerosols and their impact on air pollution, health and modern climate change
Neutron scattering and, in particular, neutron reflectometry (NR) is increasingly being used at ISIS for atmospheric chemistry research.
New repair solutions and lifetime extensions for the aerospace industry
Understanding the feasibility of ‘magnetic graphene’
Only by using neutron instruments from across the globe have researchers been able to characterise the magnetism of a graphene-like material.
Investigating hydration in ancient egyptian leathers
New research from our ISIS@MACH ITALIA collaboration has uncovered information on the hydration levels in a collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.
Spin fluctuations: another piece in the superconducting puzzle
Researchers have studied the magnetic behaviour of a cuprate superconductor and may have explained some of the unusual properties of the conduction electrons.
Supporting Net Zero by exploring solid-state battery materials using neutron spectroscopy and ab-initio molecular dynamics
Using neutron techniques at ISIS, researchers have been studying some solid-state battery materials and investigating how they could be made better in the future.
ISIS engineers’ unique technical expertise is informing industrial ion source development
The ISIS Low Energy Beams Group have been collaborating with the company Kinectrics Ltd to help them develop a new commercial ion source.
A research adventure that led to a “technically perfect” study
Scientists using the WISH beamline have demonstrated that a rather simple material can become multiferroic at room temperature.
A Sustainable Fluid for Fake Falling Snow
Fundamental insights into the interfacial structure of polymers and surfactants leads to world-leading eco-friendly artificial falling snow
Using IMAT to image more sustainable magnetic materials
A collaboration between European facilities has enabled polarised neutrons to be used on IMAT for the first time to study 3D-printed magnets.
Life Under Pressure
Biophysicists from the University of Leeds have been using neutrons to unravel the mechanisms behind survival under extreme pressures.
Understanding silicon photovoltaics one muon at a time
Researchers at ISIS have been investigating a new technique for characterising the charge carrier lifetime of silicon substances, such as those used in solar cells.
Surprises found in combined diffraction and spectroscopy study
A study of iron pentacarbonyl has revealed some unexpected results, thanks to the unique insight gained from using neutrons.
Grimy windows could be harbouring toxic pollutants
Dirty windows can harbour potentially harmful pollutants under protective films of fatty acids from cooking emissions – and these can hang around for long periods of time.
Light it up – Disentangling the structure of next-generation photovoltaic materials with TOSCA
A brand-new study unveils the elusive atomic structure of a highly anticipated photovoltaic material, thanks to the use of TOSCA’s capabilities.
The ‘Year of Four Emperors’ told through Rome’s gold coins
A new study has allowed the non-destructive investigation of Ancient Roman gold coins to reveal the economic chaos caused during the ‘Year of the Four Emperors’.
Quantum spin liquid found in a strongly correlated metallic magnet
Using neutrons and muons, researchers have discovered a quantum critical spin-liquid state in a Ce-based heavy fermion compound for the first time.
Using neutrons to study the building blocks of aeroplane wings
Neutron diffraction has been used to understand how to prevent aircraft components being deformed during manufacturing.
Raman on Mars – not noodles but vibrations!
Researchers have fully characterised the structure of the material rozenite to act as a reference for space scientists studying rocks from Mars to look for signs of water.
Using SANS to study super duplex stainless steel
A study of phase separation in super duplex stainless steel could help to develop future alloys that are less susceptible to long-term thermal degradation.
ISIS scientist’s unique technical expertise helps start-up increase productivity
Thanks to funding from STFC’s Business and Innovations Directorate, Stephen Nneji from ISIS has been able to help Stress-Space Ltd develop software that has been critical for the company’s growth.
Combining techniques to explore a curious quantum ground state
By using muon spectroscopy, inelastic neutron scattering and other techniques, researchers have been able to characterise the quantum ground state of a perovskite material.
Designing porous materials for selective and reversible gas storage
Neutron and synchrotron X-ray studies have enabled researchers to understand the behaviour of gas molecules inside porous framework materials, informing the development of new sorbents for gas storage and separation.
Creating Bespoke Databases using AI to Assist Materials Engineering
ISIS-funded PhD Students have produced the world’s largest ever auto-generated experimental databases for materials by mining information from the scientific literature.
Mapping the magnetic behaviour of an iron-based superconductor
The detailed phase diagram of a superconducting material has been fully mapped out, thanks to a combination of neutron and muon experiments.
Using SANS to study skyrmions
Researchers investigate the behaviour of samples with magnetic skyrmions to annalyse their formation mechanism.
Neutrons enable the distinction between single-k and multi-k structures
Researchers show that it is possible to distinguish between single-k and multi-k structures without the need for single crystals or external fields.
Bigger is better for anions in Water-in-Salt electrolytes
Researchers investigate the structure of water-in-salt electrolytes...
Eco-friendly ionic liquids for biomass conversion
Studying nanaostructures of ionic liquids made of naturally occurring biochemicals.
Developing environmentally friendly solvents to make nanomaterials
Using small angle neutron scattering and diffraction to investigate the use of DES in the production of nanomaterials
Investigating exotic magnetism in a breathing pyrochlore lattice
Researchers were able to investigate the spin excitations in a a structure known as a breathing pyrochlore lattice.
Looking between layers for long range magnetic order
ISIS Facility Development student Harry Lane and his collaborators use neutron spectroscopy to probe magnetic correlations at low temperatures.
NVIDIA uses ChipIr to reduce errors in GPU systems
Researchers used ChipIr to test the effect of neutrons on GPU memories and applications
Vesuvio enables comprehensive study of pasta properties
Researchers used an unprecedented combination of experimental techniques to characterise the glass transition temperature of dry rice pasta.
Photo-μSR a new method for studying photovoltaics
Researchers use a new method to separate the bulk and surface recombination of silicon photovoltaic cells.
Distorting pore shape to improve performance
Researchers have used neutron diffraction and inelastic neutron scattering to study the binding of a new MOF with a distored pore structure.
Combining magnetoelectric and multiferroic properties in one material
Researchers performed low temperature cation-exchange reactions to investigate the magnetic ground state formed.
Dr William Griggs: Using Neutrons to investigate FeRh thin films.
ISIS User William Griggs has been awarded his Doctorate from the University of Manchester based on work undertaken investigating FeRh thin films using the POLREF Instrument.
Finding a quantum state in a natural mineral
Using muon spin spectroscopy, researchers have found new evidence that the mineral, szenicsite, is dominated by the novel quantum state known as the Majumdar-Ghosh point.
‘Real’ atmospheric samples covering pollution particles analysed using neutrons for the first time
A new approach of studying the behaviour of surface films covering particles taken directly from the atmosphere has been developed by scientists.
Using neutrons to study self-assembling molecular water pipes
Scientists from Bangor University have used neutron diffraction and scattering to investigate the structure of self-assembling water pipes
The Wallace Collection: Using neutrons to analyse historic arms and armour
Scientists have used the INES beamline to perform time of flight neutron diffraction on historical weapons and armour to investigate their composition and structure.
Studying the impact of gunfire on heritage sites
Researchers have used Engin-X to help them understand the extent of gunfire damage to historic buildings during periods of conflict, which will inform how best to restore them.
Investigating the origins of unconventional superconductivity
Muons are ideal probes for studying unconventional superconducting materials, demonstrated by two recent publications studying the origins of time reversal symmetry breaking.
Using diffraction to understand the differences between healthy and diseased skin
In an uncommon experiment for the Larmor instrument, researchers have used neutron diffraction to study membranes like those in our skin.
Showing the value of using a full toolbox of techniques for evaluating quantum materials
Only by using the combination of polarised neutron reflectometry, X-ray spectroscopy and magnetotransport have researchers been able to characterise individual layers of a potential candidate for building future quantum computers.
New databases give ISIS users rapid access to large amounts of data on structure and properties
By using artificial intelligence to mine the scientific literature, ISIS and Cambridge researchers have created extensive databases for use by the semiconductor and optical materials research communities.
Using structural knowledge to design solid-state battery electrolytes
By understanding how the chemical structure of a new series of electrolyte materials impacts their ability to transport lithium ions, researchers gain an insight into how to design better battery materials in the future.
How do hydroxide ions cross a fuel cell membrane?
Using quasielastic neutron scattering, researchers have been able to disentangle strongly coupled dynamics to shed light on the ion transport in a commercial anion exchange membrane.
Using Neutrons to observe the CO2 Enhanced Oil Recovery (CO2-EOR) process in real time.
Scientists have used neutrons to help create a methodology for monitoring the CO2-EOR process in real time at the nanoscale level
Student travel grant supports novel automotive steel study
Supported by an ISIS travel grant, PhD student Anastasia Vrettou has been able to do neutron diffraction studies of advanced steel components for automotive applications.
Testing a cheaper, quicker method of making spacecraft components
Researchers from ESA and their commercial partners have used ISIS to test a new manufacturing method that could be used to build propellant tanks for spacecraft.
Understanding magnetism by using both neutrons and X-rays
By combining neutron diffraction studies with inelastic neutron and x-ray scattering experiments, researchers have been able to rationalise the complex properties of a magnetic material.
Elemental imaging on INES: a test on ancient Chinese sword fragments
Two ancient Chinese sword fragments have been characterised in unprecedented detail thanks to the combination of two neutron techniques on the INES beamline at ISIS.
Understanding how plant diseases do their damage
Neutron Reflectometry helps uncover the toxic activity of a plant pathogen.
Magnetic excitations for information transfer without heat loss
Just as electrons flow through an electrical conductor, magnetic excitations can travel through certain materials. Such excitations, known as "magnons" in analogy to the electron, could transport information much more easily than electrical conductors.
Testing the resilience of electronics for the Internet of Things
Using ChipIr, researchers have studied how ultralow power system-on-chip is affected by the neutron flux in the atmosphere. This study may be helpful in future design of such devices to be more resilient to particle hits.
Nine-year mystery over unusual low-temperature behaviour of topological magnets explained by distinctive electronic structure
The low temperature electronic and magnetic behaviour of materials hosting a topological magnetic state known as a soliton has been explained with the help of muon-spin spectroscopy experiments made at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source.
The Devon vs Cornwall cream tea debate – but for spintronic systems
It’s a longstanding debate in Britain as to whether you should spread jam or cream first on your scones. Researchers have found that the order in which you assemble magnetic and superconducting materials also makes a difference.
Using neutrons to analyse the suitability of a carbon neutral catalyst for the sustainable production of biofuel.
Scientists from Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency have used neutrons to investigate if a catalyst made from a waste product in an early stage of biofuel production can be used as a catalyst in one of the later stages.
Johnson Matthey uses Tosca to test the viability of scaling up production of a gas storage material
The feasibility of a large-scale synthesis route for the metal organic framework material ZIF-8 that is economic and environmentally favourable has been investigated using inelastic neutron scattering.
Inelastic neutron scattering reveals the extent of active dissolution from Lucideon’s iCRT platform technology.
Lucideon, a leader in material technologies accessed inelastic neutron scattering at ISIS Neutron and Muon Source to explore and develop its drug delivery solutions and formulation development tools benefitting a range of industry sectors.
Transcontinental testing of electronic chips
Using remote access during a period of travel restrictions, researchers from Brazil and Italy were able to test the resilience of Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) and Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) using ChipIr.
Looking inside a fridge that cools to ultra-low temperatures
The ISIS cryogenics team have used the IMAT instrument to see what’s really happening inside one of their dilution fridges.
ISIS' Top 10 most popular papers of 2021
We take a look back at the diverse content produced in 2021 that has increased engagement in scientific research across our facility.
AstraZeneca uses Sans2D to understand potential new mRNA production method
Biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca recently developed an automated technique to generate lipid nanoparticles for mRNA delivery and used neutrons to investigate how it compared to standard production methods.
Solar cell review featured as ACS editors’ choice
A review of methods used to characterise the layers in dye-sensitised solar cells, the outcome of a collaboration across many of the facilities at RAL, has been selected to be featured as an ACS Editors' Choice article by the American Chemical Society.
Formulating engine lubricants for modern fuels and hardware
Lubrizol has used small angle neutron scattering at ISIS to learn more about how additives neutralise a type of acid formed in engine lubricant that is more common when biofuels are used.
Uncovering how sand saved ancient helmets from degrading underwater
Insights from neutron experiments have enabled scientists to understand how a pair of ancient helmets survived in good condition underwater for so long.
Rare coupling of electronic and lattice degrees of freedom observed
Using multiple techniques, an international research collaboration has found evidence of coupling between electronic and lattice degrees of freedom: a very rare phenomenon
Infineum commissions new sample environment to study engine oil components
Speciality chemical company Infineum has used a new neutron reflectivity setup to recreate what happens to surfactants inside an engine.
Neutron imaging reveals never-before-seen 3D muscle structure in rare Jurassic ammonite fossil
For the first time, details of the soft tissues in an exceptionally preserved fossil have been revealed in 3D using IMAT, throwing new light on creatures that thrived in the oceans 165 million years ago
Unlocking the secrets of soil through time-of-flight neutron imaging and X-ray techniques
Researchers have used both x-ray and neutron imaging techniques to analyse the structure of organic matter within soil.
Tea and liquorice: a recipe for sustainable detergents and toiletries?
A UK consortium including ISIS researchers have characterised the behaviour of naturally occurring surfactants, learning more about how their molecular structure influences their solution self-assembly properties.
Using machines to search for better battery materials
Researchers have used machine learning to discover a new material that could be used in lithium-ion batteries.
Using neutrons to observe lattice deformation in steel weldments in wind turbines
Researchers from Cranfield University came to ISIS to use neutrons to investigate the effect that the welding process has on lattice structure in steel weldments.
Twenty years on, neutron data help scientists to witness “spooky” entanglement in quantum magnets
Using ISIS data from an experiment in 2000, researchers have demonstrated the viability of a “quantum entanglement witness” capable of proving the presence of entanglement between magnetic particles, or spins, in a quantum material.
Hydrogen bonding in protonic ionic liquids probed by TOSCA and state-of-the-art solid-state calculations
This study reports, for the first time, an exhaustive, computationally supported study of protonic ionic liquids using inelastic neutron spectroscopy.
Unified picture for the spin resonance mode in Cr-based spinel oxides using inelastic neutron scattering
Neutron scattering measurements of the spinel oxide LiGaCr4O8 reveal the coexistence of a nearly dispersionless resonance mode and dispersive spin-wave excitations in the magnetically ordered state, suggesting a unified picture for spin resonances in Cr
Roman coin study reveals thriving empires
A study of gold coins from different moments of the Roman Empire have revealed the thriving economy at the time of minting.
Carbon Net Zero Research at ISIS Neutron and Muon Source
Research at ISIS supports the UK government's ambitious plan to reach a carbon-neutral economy by 2050, tackling climate change through reducing emissions, using cleaner sources of energy and greener transport solutions.
TOSCA hunts the dynamics of the elusive cubic ice Ic
After initial characterisation on HRPD, researchers have used other neutron techniques to understand an unusual type of ice.
Dem bones, dem bones, dem burnt bones…
Often the part of the body most resistant to decay, the study of human bones has a vital role to play in both archaeology and forensic science, providing rich information on how people lived, died and what happened to them after death.
Illuminating samples inside the beamline
A new sample cell that can be used for inelastic neutron scattering whilst a sample is being illuminated has been developed and successfully used on Tosca.
What makes an explosive go bang?
Researchers have used Tosca to investigate how the structure of an energetic material dictates its sensitivity
The development of new supercapacitor devices making electrified transport more affordable
Scientists from the University of the West of Scotland have used ISIS to investigate the electrolytes present in supercapacitors to help develop safer, cheaper and more environmentally friendly versions.
Hydrogen Storage Research at ISIS
A video interview of three collaborators who have used ISIS for their research on hydrogen storage materials.
Lanthanides and ligands combined form a new perovskite-like series
Researchers from the University of Kent have used TOSCA to characterise a new series of perovskite-like compounds that combine inorganic and organic building blocks.
Understanding neutron-caused errors in electronics
Researchers have used ChipIr’s high-intensity neutron beam to showcase effective reliability improvements for commercially available Artificial Intelligence (AI) accelerators.
2021 Roadmap to sodium ion batteries
ISIS staff and users have contributed to a collection of articles discussing the use of sodium ion batteries for energy storage.
Sacha Fop has been recognised as a 2021 Emerging Investigator
Sacha, a beamline scientist on HRPD, has been highlighted in a special issue of the Journal of Materials Chemistry A, which gathers “some of the best research being conducted by scientists in the early stages of their independent career”.
Photovoltaic perovskites can detect neutrons
A simple and cheap device for detecting neutrons has been developed by a team of EPFL researchers and their collaborators.
Molecular IgG3 structure paves the way for new applications of antibodies
A combination of scattering and analytical techniques has provided the first atomic-level structural model for the IgG3 antibody
Using QENS to investigate why caffeine gives you a boost
Scientists have used the Iris Instrument to investigate what is it that causes caffeine to give you a kick of energy.
Zwitterions as protein repellents
Researchers investigate how the length of the alkyll chain affects its reactions with water.
$Gavin Stenning from the ISIS materials characterisation lab with one of the ISIS X-ray diffractometers.$
Uncovering the cause of surprise superconductivity
Superconductivity and ferromagnetism were previously thought to not be able to co-exist within the same material, however, scientists from the University of Leeds have been investigating the superconductivity present in samples of ferromagnetic material.
Preparing robots to survive longer in extreme radiation environments
Scientists from the University of Essex have developed a method that helps protect the workings of robots when they're exposed to radiation
The effect of chain length and water content on ionic liquid behaviour
Size of magnesium ion more important than its strength when attracting water molecules
Scientists have discovered a connection between the size of a magnesium ion and it's ability to attract water molecules, previously thought to be related to its high dehydration energy.
Quantum tunnelling plays a major role in muonium reactions with larger alkanes
Scientists have found that quantum tunnelling has a dramatic effect on the rate of reaction that occurs when muonium reacts with larger alkanes.
Nanostructures formed by self-assembling peptides
Scientists investigate helical peptides to observe their self-assembly behaviour.
Investigating perovskite ground state structures on Vesuvio
Scientists have used INS to investigate the ground state structure of BaZrO3, a material with the potential for application in a range of different technologies including fuel cells and hydrogen separation membranes.
New solid state battery material for next generation batteries
Scientists analyse candidate materials to create next generation of solid state batteries.
Investigating silica-surfactant interactions: when two techniques are better than one
An International collaboration investigates the formation of silica surfactant particles.
Neutrons optimise high efficiency catalyst for greener approach to biofuel synthesis
A simpler, more effective, route to cleaner water
Researchers have devised a simple method to remove dyes from wastewater using newly developed graphene-based nanocomposites.
How crumpling helmets protected Samurai warriors from bullets
Engin-X reveals microstructural details that show one type of Samurai helmet protected their wearer from firearms in the same way as a car crumple zone.
Layering Up
Using muons, researchers have been able to identify layers of different quantum spin liquid phases present in the same material.
Maximising beamtime using applied statistics
An industrial placement student working in the reflectometry group has created a framework that will help users make the most of their neutron beam time.
ISIS and the UK Hydrogen Economy
With the UK government setting out its first ever hydrogen strategy, the neutron and muon user community is continuing to develop the technology needed to make the plans a reality.
Neutron scattering for catalysis – special issue
The journal Topics in Catalysis has published a special issue focussing on the impact of neutron scattering on catalysis studies, which features a variety of research carried out at ISIS.
Understanding Topological Insulators to Build the Next Generation of Electronics
Using MuSR, Professor Patnaik from Jawaharlal Nehru University, cracked how to study fundamental properties of topological superconductors.
$(a) Cryogenic tensile rig; (b) Stress-strain curves of a FeCrNiCo HEA; (c) Diffraction patterns during tensile loading at 15 K ($
Using High Entropy Alloys for cryogenic applications towards a greener future.
Cryogenic conditions, below -150°C, are crucial for the widespread application of some greener fuels, and so it is important that the materials used are able to cope with these harsh conditions.
Neutrons, catalysis and net zero
Catalysts could have a big impact when working towards Net Zero, across a wide variety of different industrial processes.
New compact neutron sources at ISIS: from driverless cars to dark matter
Two new desktop fusion devices are being installed at ISIS for testing the effects of cosmic rays and space weather on electronics, and supporting the search for dark matter.
Using catalysts to improve yield of light olefins from sustainable biomass
Using TOSCA and MAPS researchers were able to study zeolite catalysts that alter reaction pathways to produce a higher yield of light olefins from compounds derived from a sustainable biomass source.
Keeping it cool: an inorganic material with lowest thermal conductivity ever reported
A collaborative research team has discovered a new inorganic material with the lowest thermal conductivity ever reported.
Life Sciences Vision
The UK government has published its Life Science Vision, setting out its ambitions for the sector over the next decade, and ISIS science supports many different areas of research relevant to this vision.
Designing toothpastes that are kinder to gums
Key ingredients in toothpastes and mouthwashes can occasionally act as irritants to the inside of the mouth. By looking at the way these ingredients interact with thin films of spit, researchers hope to develop new, less irritant, formations.
Using neutron sources across Europe to measure fuel cell materials
Advanced neutron technologies galvanise research into advanced polymer electrolyte membranes.
Unpicking nano-staples to control protein unfolding during network formation
A group of researchers has discovered that the process of a protein unfolding plays a defining role in the structure and mechanical properties of wider protein networks.
Introducing impurities to induce spin textures
For the first time, researchers have been able to produce exotic spin states in magnetic materials by introducing impurities.
Using buckyballs to create new superconducting systems
Researchers have been able to tune superconducting correlations by introducing molecular interfaces made of carbon.
Quality control method for fusion component design
Using neutron tomography on the IMAT instrument, researchers have established that the technique could be used for testing divertor target monoblock prototypes before manufacturing hundreds of thousands of monoblocks for use in the fusion reactor DEMO.
The science behind extra virgin olive oil’s antioxidant properties
The first-ever study to look at the antioxidant properties of extra virgin olive oil with a neutron scattering instrument has been conducted at ISIS, in collaboration with the ISIS@MACH ITALIA Research infrastructure (IMI), hub of ISIS.
Human tissue measured for the first time using QENS
Researchers from the University of Coimbra, Portugal, are carrying out the first Quasi-Elastic Neutron Scattering investigations on human tissue samples to investigate the difference between cancerous and non-cancerous cells.
Sugar-free antibodies find it harder to function properly
Research from a co-funded ISIS PhD studentship has found that the sugars on antibodies are key to the way they interact with immune receptor cells in the body.
Combining techniques to uncover unexpected magnetic correlations
Antiferromagnetic correlations in the presence of strong valence fluctuations in CeIrSn have been confirmed using a range of techniques including muon spectroscopy and inelastic neutron scattering.
Researchers develop algorithm to see inside materials with subatomic particles
The first ever study to look at muon spectroscopy using machine learning.
Finding a quantum spin liquid in a distorted honeycomb
A group of researchers used the MuSR, MERLIN and WISH instruments, along with theoretical modeling, to investigate the unconventional magnetism in a honeycomb oxide material.
Can nanomagnetism be exploited for AI tasks?
Emergent properties of a nanomagnetic system have potential to be harnessed for artificial intelligence tasks, like speech recognition.
Self-assembling surfactants organise into fractal formations
A research collaboration with the University of Bristol and GlaxoSmithKline has investigated surfactant self-assembly in a ‘green’ solvent, finding that counter-ion condensation causes the formation of fractal dendrites.
Discovering ion pairing in alkalide solutions
Alkalides have been long assumed to exhibit ‘gas-like’ behaviour and not interact with their environment. Neutron experiments on NIMROD have majorly contributed to calling this into question, and provided strong evidence for ion association in solution.
Building a catalogue of amino acid neutron scattering interactions
Researchers have completed an in-depth characterisation of the thermal neutron cross sections of all twenty amino acids, developing a new model that can be easily applied to other organic materials.
Insights into Chiral Superconductors
Topological superconductors (SCs) are novel phases of matter, potentially useful in fault-tolerant quantum computation.
Gaining new insights into a cancer-causing protein
Neutron reflectometry has given scientists an atomic-level insight into the behaviour of Bcl-2, a protein that promotes cancerous cell growth.
Studying suncream using SANS
The microstructure of suncream, and its dependence on the presence of UV filters and preservatives, has been measured using SANS for the first time.
Random model realised in quantum material
For the first time, researchers have observed experimentally a randomly ordered quantum magnetic phase.
Understanding the growth of disease-causing protein fibres
Using the unique contrast method offered by neutron scattering, researchers have been able to measure the rate of growth of amyloid fibrils in solution.
Testing a treatment for preserving paintings
A group of scientists has developed an experimental setup on IMAT that has enabled them to test methods to prevent precious textiles from moisture damage.
Designing an antibiotic that looks like a virus
An international research team have used the Inter beamline to study whether adding virus-like spikes to the outside of a silica nanoparticle makes it more effective at interacting with biological membranes and delivering antimicrobial drugs.
Learning from meteorites to improve bone replacements
The first full and accurate characterisation of the mineral whitlockite has been carried out using neutron diffraction at ISIS, X-ray diffraction, electron microprobe analysis, and infrared spectroscopy.
Feature article: investigations into porous materials
From gas storage to catalysis, porous materials have a range of possible applications, and neutrons are used in many ways to characterise their performance.
How could changes in cloud condensation impact climate change?
Neutron reflectivity experiments reveal details on how changes in particulate matter affect cloud condensation.
Lower energy neutrons need a different recipe for effective concrete shielding
Industrial users have brought barite-enriched concrete to the VESUVIO beamline to test the effectiveness of its radiation shielding at lower neutron energies
Adding pressure to Prussian Blue Analogues
Using neutron and X-ray diffraction at high pressures, researchers have investigated the effects of defects, hydration and composition on Prussian Blue Analogues
Could rotating molecules be the key to designing Quantum Spin Liquids?
Researchers have discovered a new way of designing quantum spin liquids; exotic materials that may impact on areas as diverse as IT and superconductivity
Neutron experiments confirm the existence of new form of ice
Using diffraction experiments on HRPD, Austrian researchers have confirmed the existence of an exotic form of ice: Ice XIX.
Machine Learning method turns ‘pixie-dust’ into reality for ISIS experiment
Cross-department collaboration between ISIS and SCD leads to the development of a machine learning-based solution for super-fast analysis of results.
Probing vibrational modes in an organic semiconductor using neutrons
ISIS scientists have used inelastic neutron scattering to study the low energy vibrational modes of the organic semiconductor TCNQ.
Muons give molecular insight into ISIS magnets
Using muons on HiFi, ISIS electrical engineer Ben Orton has been able to identify the behaviour of the charges within materials in the accelerator magnet dielectrics at an atomic scale.
Neutron science helps tackle antibiotic resistance
Two different studies conducted using small angle neutron scattering reveal novel methods to kill bacteria.
Using neutrons to see what’s happening inside a transparent solar cell
Neutron reflectivity has been used to take a look at the internal layers of solar cells, to see how their structure could impact their performance.
Noncollinear magnetic order of a new magnetoelectric material determined by neutron diffraction
The magnetic structure of an unusual magnetoelectric compound has been determined by combining single-crystal neutron diffraction and direction-dependent magnetic susceptibility.
Getting cold at ISIS
With the UK feeling the chill, we go behind the scenes with the ISIS cryogenics group to learn how they support the growing demand for ultra-low temperature experiments.
New solid-state battery material for next generation batteries
Using neutron and muon techniques, researchers have tested a new material that could be used inside a solid-state battery.
Thinking of milk as sticky helps dairy data analysis
A new way of looking at the structure of milk has been applied to existing neutron data, showing that the particles within it are stickier than previously thought.
Fine tuning of the magnetic properties within thin films
Using ion beams at different intensities leads to depth selective control over which magnetic phase is present in FeRh thin films.
Molecular machines that pick up good vibrations
The effect of vibrations on the energy barriers of hydrogen-deuterium exchange in a molecular machine has been shown to cause a 400-fold increase in the rate of reaction.
Does it matter if shellfish food is left-handed or right-handed?
Scientists from Evonik Nutrition & Care, Evonik Operations GmbH and the University of Reading have used inelastic neutron scattering alongside other techniques to study the differences between two forms of a new feed supplement for marine organisms.
Polymer composites: improving the environment, understanding scattering, and supporting enterprise
A new environmentally friendly material for use in neutron shielding has been tested at ISIS by the company Additive Composite Uppsala AB.
Novel IMAT experiment helps Rolls-Royce Plc with crystal conundrum
A new characterisation method has been used on the IMAT beamline to determine the 3D structure of materials used in gas turbine engines.
Adapting the ISIS targets to run at higher power
Before lockdown, High Power Targets Group engineer Dan Wilcox was running analysis for targets at TS1 and TS2. We got in touch with him to speak to about current work and future innovation in target design within ISIS.
ISIS beamlines help Unilever develop biodegradable products
Using a range of scattering techniques at ISIS to investigate how naturally occurring surfactants interact with their synthetic analogues, Unilever scientists have gained an insight into developing more eco-friendly products.
Neutron tomography of pistons at IMAT
IMAT helps to understand where and how coking occurs on engine components
ISIS and the 10 point plan for a Green Industrial Revolution
We undertake many activities which support the themes of the UK government’s recently announced environmental action plan.
Computers in neutron science – special issue
Alongside collaborators from Oak Ridge National Lab, ISIS scientists have produced a special issue of the Journal of Physics Communications focussing on the impact of computers in neutron science.
Water surprise: how two molecules can have the same, but also the opposite, effect
TMAO and magnesium perchlorate perturb water structure in an opposing manner, yet surprisingly have an additive effect in slowing water dynamics.
What damage does bleaching cause to your hair?
Neutron experiments have been used to study the effect of bleaching on human hair at the atomic level.
Investigating battery performance and lifetime at IMAT
Leveraging the unique interaction of neutrons and lithium, researchers have been able to build a unique picture of what’s happening inside a lithium battery as it undergoes cycling.
Rattling thallium explains low thermal conductivity
The disruption of lattice vibrations by the ‘rattling’ movement of thallium atoms is found to be the cause of a large reduction in thermal conductivity.
Novel method of studying glassification could revolutionize carbon capture technology
Studying the process of glassification in post-combustion carbon capture solvents could inform the development of successful prototypes used to minimise anthropogenic emissions.
Controlling cell membranes with the flick of a light switch
Inserting a light-sensitive molecule into cell membranes could allow us to take control of cells.
Recreating the deepest point on Earth
Scientists from Rome Tor Vergata and ISIS have used the Vesuvio spectrometer to unravel part of the mystery behind the physical and chemical conditions of the Mariana Trench - one of the most extreme environments in the world.
Verifying the molecular dynamics calculations of asphaltene aggregates
Nano-particles´ influence - How shape memory alloys behave under stress
Studying the clinical markers for blocked arteries
Manipulating MOFs to improve proton conduction
Discovery of “killer” phonon mode informs the search for new organic semiconductors
Neutrons reveal water clusters, which could explain the behaviour of amorphous pharmaceuticals
Understanding hidden magnetic phases
Reflectivity studies the interactions between nanogels and skin models
Fibre formation in meat analogues measured using neutron spectroscopy
The effect of the headgroup and chain structure on surfactant behaviour at the surface
Cryo-SANS used for characterizing micellar structures at sub-zero temperatures
Photoexcited µSR used to measure carrier kinetics in semiconductor materials
Carbon nitride shows promise as a membrane for water filtration and fuel cells
An international research collaboration has found that water can pass through carbon nitride layers in the same way as it does through aquaporin channels in biological systems.
Stoichiometry changes influence magnetic behaviour
New double perovskite shows novel colossal magnetoresistance
Corannulene shows promise as a hydrogen store
Characterising a quantum spin liquid candidate
Using MuSR, the magnetic behaviour of Zn-barlowite has been characterised, highlighting its potential as a quantum spin liquid.
Studying how water behaves when proteins are present
Neutron experiments studying the motions of water and protein molecules give an insight into their behaviour in biological systems.
Muons show weak magnetism in a high capacitance, low loss dielectric material
One material - two ground states
How big is a proton? Muons may have the answer…
A complex muon experiment is being set up at ISIS to solve the “proton radius puzzle” and resolve ongoing queries surrounding the size of a proton.
Getting to the Point: Neutron analysis of Bronze Age swords reveals how they were used
Neutron analysis using GEM has brought us a step closer to defining the moment in European history that the primary use of metal-hilted swords switched from stabbing to cut-and-thrust combat.
Decoding decoherence
Quantum information leaks away from a muon implanted in a fluoride crystal
Revisiting magnetism for brain-like computers
Back in 2012, we highlighted work done by Professor Christopher Marrows towards developing a new type of computer architecture that operates in the same way as a human brain. We got back in contact with him to speak about how his work has progressed.
Intracellular water could help us distinguish between healthy and malignant cells
Little is known about the transition of a cell from normal to cancerous. Neutron scattering on OSIRIS is helping to provide answers by studying the properties of water inside the cells.
Controlling a beamline from across the Atlantic
With ISIS now operating under remote access, users are running experiments from their own institutions, including a group who have been “on” HiFi while remaining in Canada.
Students develop software for use on IMAT
Through a series of summer placements, and an MSc project, the BEAn software has been developed for IMAT by students working at ISIS under beamline scientists’ guidance and supervision.
A combination of neutron experiments uncovers a structural rarity in a perovskite-type oxide ion conductor
Researchers from Durham University have used neutrons at ISIS, ILL and ANSTO alongside other techniques to characterise the structure and conductivity of an oxide-conducting perovskite.
Engin-X used to investigate how hydrogen embrittlement can cause industrial steels to fail
By studying how the structure of super duplex stainless steel samples changes under stress in the presence of hydrogen, the effect of the gas on structural integrity has been examined, and a model produced to inform industrial applications.
The effect of d orbital occupation on magnetic interactions
A research group from the University of Sheffield have worked alongside ISIS staff using multiple techniques to investigate magnetic interactions inside perovskite materials: finding that the occupation of the d orbitals plays a key role.
Under pressure: how chemistry can replicate compression
A high-pressure study of two layered perovskite materials has compared the effect of high pressure and structural changes caused by altering chemical composition, showing that one could be used to predict the other.
First bulk observation of helical ordering of electric dipoles
A study led by ISIS researchers in collaboration with University College London, the University of Oxford and the Japanese National Institute of Materials Science has uncovered emergent helical texture of electric dipoles in the solid state.
Clay minerals used as drug carriers
By studying water mobility in clay minerals, an international research group have gained an insight into the effectiveness and lifetime of these clays as drug carriers.
Negative muons used alongside positive muons to measure lithium diffusion in battery materials
For the first time, a combination of positive- and negative-muon spin rotation and relaxation (μ±SR) has been used to measure lithium-ion diffusion in a magnetic battery material.
Larmor tests the stability of bacteria that sense magnetic fields
An international research group has used Larmor to study a special strain of bacteria that senses and aligns to the Earth’s magnetic field.
Muons for understanding ion diffusion in energy materials
The ability of ions to move within a material is crucial to the performance of next-generation energy devices such as batteries and fuel cells, and muons offer a method to study this movement.
Offspec searches for spin-gravity coupling
A research collaboration has used a unique set up on Offspec to look for any spin-gravity interaction experienced by the neutron beam.
Studying unconventional superconductors using muons
A recent review paper looks at unconventional superconductors that spontaneously break time-reversal symmetry, an extremely unusual and rare phenomenon, and highlights the importance of muon spectroscopy in measuring such materials.
Zoom experiment enables the formation of nanoscale Olympic rings
The first publication to come from an experiment on the newest ISIS instrument, Zoom, has identified a nucleation mechanism that enabled an international research group to create intricate structures comprising of interlocked single-molecule rings.
A greener route to drug encapsulated MOFs
University of Oxford and ISIS researchers have examined the mechanism behind a new, greener, route to the synthesis of the MOF MIL-100 (Fe), and the encapsulation of drug molecules within it.
Hierarchical biomechanics: dictating hydrogel network properties from a single folded protein building block
Researchers from the University of Leeds have designed a protein hydrogel that can translate the properties of the individual protein-ligand interaction to that of the whole protein network.
Investigating silica-surfactant interactions: when two techniques are better than one
Spin-Echo Modulated Small-Angle Neutron Scattering (SEMSANS) and Small Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) were used together to provide a complete picture of the initial solution formation stages of particles that go on to form mesoporous silica thin films.
Neutrons enable structural determination of a Prussian blue analogue
Using an Xpress measurement on GEM, new ISIS user Hanna Boström has been able to determine the full structure of the Prussian blue analogue RbCuCo(CN)6.
A tale of two tails
The mechanism behind the exchange of double-ended polymers that form flower-like structures has been determined for the first time using time-resolved small angle neutron scattering on SANS2D.
Zeolite pore control for purification of polymer starting materials
Reversible and selective separation of alkyne impurities from polymer starting materials has been achieved by controlling the environment of the pores inside a zeolite.
Could thermal neutrons be a threat to reliable supercomputing and self-driving cars?
An investigation into the effect of thermal neutrons on commercial computing devices finds that the failure rate due to thermal neutron damage in some environments is high enough to be a significant threat to device reliability.
Long-standing quantum physics prediction proven: Bethe strings experimentally observed
Ninety years after physicist Hans Bethe postulated the existence of unusual patterns in magnetic solids, known as Bethe strings, an international research team has experimentally detected them for the first time.
Inelastic Neutron Scattering reveals surprisingly small hydrogen-hydrogen distances
The first observations of very tightly spaced hydrogen atoms in a metal hydride open up the possibility of new hydrogen-storage materials and creating superconductors that operate near room temperature and pressure.
Xpress access to TOSCA leads to the quick characterisation of a catalyst for hydrofluorination
By using a combination of methods, including inelastic neutron scattering, the addition of hydrogen fluoride to a commercial catalyst has been investigated, and its hydrofluorination capability tested.
LET distinguishes coherent and incoherent low energy scattering for the first time
Combining polarization analysis with the unique capabilities of the LET spectrometer has enabled the distinction between the single-particle and collective dynamics of deuterated water for the first time.
3D printed tissue-like vascular structures investigated on Larmor
An international team of scientists have discovered a new material that can be 3D printed to create tissue-like vascular structures.
Phonon dispersions measured for the first time in prototype molecular qubit
Using state-of-the-art single crystal inelastic neutron scattering on LET, a group of researchers has measured, for the first time, phonon dispersions in a prototypical molecular qubit.
Muons probe beneath the surface without leaving a scratch
Scientists at ISIS have developed a technique that will allow them to probe the composition of archaeological objects in three dimensions – even deep beneath the surface – without so much as leaving a scratch on the precious artefact.
Vanadium research on Larmor is awarded “most outstanding”
An investigation studying micro-alloyed steels on Larmor has been given the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining Vanadium Award for the most outstanding paper in the metallurgy and technology of vanadium and its alloys.
Temperature and chain length determine rate of exchange of chains between diblock copolymer nanoparticles
The speciality chemicals company Lubrizol has used neutron scattering at ISIS to investigate the rate of copolymer chain exchange in nanoparticles comprising diblock copolymers of differing chain lengths at various temperatures.
Investigating hard carbons for battery materials
Using the Materials Characterisation Lab, EMU, and computational modelling, two recent publications give an insight into the behaviour of ions inside hard carbons, when used for battery materials.
Neutrons reveal quantum liquid of octupoles
Experiments on MAPS, MERLIN and GEM have identified a quantum liquid of magnetic octupoles formed by a cerium-based compound.
Peptide disks keep membrane proteins pointing in the right direction
By using peptide discs loaded with proteins, a group of researchers have been able to build a lipid bilayer that facilitates the study of membrane proteins using a range of techniques, including neutron reflectometry.
NIMROD gives an insight into low enhanced oil recovery in shale
A group from the U.S. Geological Survey used NIMROD to investigate samples of shale rock under different pressures of carbon dioxide, assessing the feasibility of these rocks for carbon dioxide storage and enhanced oil recovery.
Kew measures spores on IRIS to understand seed storage
After an encounter at a conference, researchers from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, visited the IRIS instrument to trial a technique that could help them determine how long they can store seeds for.
IMAT measures Martian meteorites
A collaboration of scientists from Lund, Glasgow and the Natural History Museum came to IMAT last week to map the hydrous phases of Martian meteorites in 3D.
Breakthrough made on the next big step to building the world's most powerful particle accelerator
For the first time scientists have observed muon ionization cooling – a major step in being able to create the world’s most powerful particle accelerator.
Microscopic Neutron Entanglement
Researchers from ISIS and their global collaborators have developed a new quantum probe. The beam of entangled neutrons has the potential to reveal quantum correlations in materials.
Muons measure magnesium migration
The first muon study of magnesium diffusion has used EMU to improve the understanding of how these ions move through solid-state materials, with applications for battery technology.
HRPD helps find a way to make ice cubic
Despite the common shape of ice in your freezer being a cube, the structure of ice crystals is actually hexagonal. For the first time, scientists have been able to make a form of ice that is actually cubic.
#10YearsOn - Tom Headen
To continue our series of articles celebrating the new decade, Tom Headen looks back on the progress made in aromatic hydrocarbon research, and beamline technology, since we published his science highlight in 2010.
#10YearsOn - Luke Clifton
To celebrate the start of the new decade, Luke Clifton reflects on the progress made in his research field since we published his science highlight in 2010.
A simple ‘one pot’ synthesis produces silica nanoparticles with great potential
High-pressure neutron study changes our understanding of an important synthetic oxide
Investigating SnIP, the first atomic‐scale double helical semiconductor
Neutron scattering reveals the orientational structure of liquid benzene under confinement
First observation of the elusive encounter complex in Frustrated Lewis Pairs
Developing a transferable theoretical framework for magnetic exchange in asymmetric lanthanide dimetallics
A novel sodium-rich double perovskite proves promising for new battery technologies
Understanding the performance of hydrogen storage materials
Neutrons – a breath of fresh air for the offshore wind turbine industry
Investigating marine aerosols at night
Developing efficient organic solar cells
New mechanism observed for CO2 transfer in flexible MOFs
Neutrons offer insights into proton conduction in crystalline MOFs
Using neutrons to determine the diffusion mechanism for Na-ion battery materials
Secrets of Peptide Assembly unzipped at ISIS
Neutron scattering probes the intricacies of drug delivery
Bacterial outer membranes and the potential for new antibiotics
Muons find magnetic order in materials for spintronics and multiferroics
Probing helimagnetic correlations in a doped chiral magnet
Neutron studies explain anomalies in a Weyl semimetal
Neutron spectroscopy of magnetic fluctuations in a charge-ordered antiferromagnet
New insights into planet formation using NIMROD
Iron meteorites allow us to probe the formation of our Solar System
A neutron analysis of a promising magnonics material
Using neutrons to measure the helix pitch for calculating the Topological Hall Effect
New hybrid materials for detecting hydrogen peroxide
For the first time, hybrid materials made of Co2TiO4 and reduced graphene oxide have been made, characterised, and tested as hydrogen peroxide sensors.
The unlikely neutron science behind your Christmas menu
They say that cooking a great Christmas dinner is an art form, but there is also a surprising amount of science that happens in the manufacture of the ingredients that go into your festive treats.
Uncovering the effect of pesticides on the waxy layer of plants
A team from the University of Manchester, ISIS and Syngenta, have been using a combination of analytical techniques in order to study the efficiency of pesticides in the development of agri-sprays, which are commonly used in the agricultural industry.
Getting to the root of it using neutron and X-ray imaging
Researchers from the University of Southampton alongside scientists from ISIS and Diamond Light Source are developing a robust method to study the interactions between plant roots and soil.
Ambidextrous magneto-electric textures: the future of data storage?
The observation of a material able to exhibit chirality (handedness) in both its electrical and magnetic systems opens new possibilities for the developing field of spintronics.
Textbook skin cream structure is wrong
Neutrons at ISIS reveal that the microstructure of skin creams is more complex than previously thought.
Cereal research takes roots on IMAT
Neutrons have been used to map the root structure of wheat plants in life-like soil conditions for the first time, and the researchers have returned to study rice, with the help of a new research greenhouse on the IMAT beamline.
Understanding intracellular water dynamics of bacteria under high pressures
Scientists have investigated the behaviour of water inside Shewanella oneidensis cells at a biomolecular level under very high hydrostatic pressures
Sulfur Dioxide: from toxic gas to industrial ingredient
An international team, led by scientists from the University of Manchester, have developed a new material that can reversibly adsorb sulfur dioxide from waste gas streams.
Looking inside a zeolite to understand its catalytic selectivity
A study combining inelastic neutron scattering (INS) and quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS) has given scientists a unique view inside the zeolite catalyst ZSM-5, enabling them to understand the selectivity of its reaction with hydrocarbon molecules.
Combining insights from neutrons and muons to explain magnetic transitions.
Using muon spin relaxation experiments on EMU and HiFi alongside neutron powder diffraction on WISH has enabled the characterisation of the complex phases of a metamagnetic shape memory alloy: a material that can produce force under a magnetic field.
Testing solar cells for space travel
A group from UCL and ISIS have been testing solar cells made from perovskite materials to see how resilient they are to the neutron irradiation they would be exposed to in space.
Surfactants: explainer
Surface-active agents, surfactants, are crucial to many industries including healthcare, cleaning and petrochemicals. Here we explain what they are and how research at the ISIS Neutron and Muon source plays a vital part in developing their applications.
Neutrons investigate novel nanoparticle used in cell therapy imaging
An international team of scientists have used neutrons to investigate a novel nanoparticle that can provide real-time imaging of cell therapies to be used in the treatment of melanoma.
Tackling antibiotic resistance using cubosomes
Scientists from Sweden and Denmark are using neutrons to study a unique drug-delivery system and its effect on bacteria to tackle the antibiotic resistance crisis.
Unravelling the mystery of textile inks in ancient Egypt
Textiles from the tomb of a royal architect of ancient Egypt could tell us how ink technology developed, from marking fabric to writing text on papyrus and parchment later on.
Beetle scales could hold the key to sustainable white paint
Scientists have used STFC’s ISIS Neutron and Muon Source (ISIS) research facility to investigate how to mimic one of the brightest whites in nature, the wing scales of the Cyphochilus beetle to produce environmentally friendly paint
Polaris enables the study of structural change during thermal battery discharge
The way that a thermal battery discharges has been studied in real-time using neutrons, revealing the changes in the structure that occur during these transitions.
How a pigment might hold the key to cybernetic implants in humans
A team of scientists at ISIS are studying how a humble pigment present in humans and most living things, melanin, could be the key to implanting and integrating electronic devices into the human body.
Improper Ferroelectricity caused by bonding rather than size
A new material has been discovered that becomes an improper ferroelectric due to a break in symmetry caused solely by an electronically driven transition, rather than a geometric (size-driven) transformation.
Double-faced hydrogen bonding in ionic liquids
Neutron diffraction and molecular dynamics simulations have shown that in some cases ions of the same charge actually form stronger hydrogen bonds to one another that oppositely charged species, despite the repulsion of their charges.
Probing the strange properties of hydrothermal water
A team of scientists using ISIS are investigating these fluids in the hope that as well as shedding light on the mechanisms that power the planet, we might learn how to exploit them in the fight against climate change.
Iron Selenide: not as unique as expected
Previously thought of as a distinctive superconductor, researchers have used ISIS and other international facilities to show that iron selenide operates in the same way as other iron-based superconductors.
Biodiesel under high pressure
High-pressure studies of one of the main components of biodiesel, methyl stearate, have shown the different crystal structures adopted by the compound. This has implications for the use of biofuels in modern diesel engines.
A new perspective on how hydrogen bonds with platinum catalysts
Neutrons have enabled ISIS scientists to study the full range of bonding methods between hydrogen and platinum, including those previously unseen using traditional spectroscopy techniques.
Insight into the impact of iodide ion movement in solar cells
Muon experiments have helped researchers study the movement of iodide ions within a new family of solar cell materials; reducing this movement could improve the efficiency of the devices.
Using multiple beamlines enables a full structural characterisation
A project involving experiments on three beamlines at ISIS, and the Diamond Light Source, has determined the structural phase diagram of La2NiMnO6 under high pressure.
Rethinking lipid transfer in bacteria
Research carried out at ISIS has played a key part in a large research study that challenges the thinking about how bacteria maintain the structure of their outer membrane.
Structural study of ‘smart’ nanogels at the air/water interface
Investigations into the behaviour of stimuli responsive nanogels at an air/water interface using neutrons has shown that even small changes in the structure of the nanogels can affect the way it interacts with the surface.
Probing interactions of nanomaterials containing different pore dimensions and geometries with gases using neutron scattering
Huan Doan will present his research on using nanoporous materials for addressing challenges in sustainable technologies at the European Conference on Neutron Scattering (ECNS2019) in St Petersburg.
Neutrons for Organic Solar Energy Technologies
Scientists from The University of Sheffield are studying the layered structure of highly efficient organic thin films for cheaper, more environmentally friendly, solar energy technologies.
Neutron Power: Finding useful oxygen atoms and ions
The unique properties of neutrons have enabled the study of potential fuel cell materials to understand the transport of oxygen within them and the contribution of ionic charge carriers to the total electrical conductivity.
Understanding the most popular conducting polymer
The liquid and solid structure of the most popular conducting polymer has been studied using neutrons when doped with a surfactant for conductivity improvement.
ISIS ice research is a hot topic
A publication based on experiments at ISIS has been selected by the journal editors as a ‘hot article’ to appear in their online rolling collection of featured articles.
Magnetic sandwiches transferring information through their filling
Layered magnetic materials have been studied at ISIS to determine the influence of layer thickness on an effect known as exchange bias. This effect was discovered in the mid 1950s and remains essential for our modern data storage and microelectronics.
Low frequency vibrations expose the interactions of anti-cancer drugs confined in the pores of a metal organic framework
Researchers have been able to investigate the interactions between a drug molecule and the framework that can be used to trap it.
Cobham use ChipIr to bring product to market
Cobham RAD Europe Ltd have brought a new product to market thanks to STFC’s Bridging for Innovators (B4I) programme, which enabled them to access the unique capability offered by the ChipIr beamline for cosmic radiation testing.
Watching hydrogen flip its spin
A conversion that happens inside a hydrogen molecule has been studied with an unprecedented level of detail, giving an insight into how this conversion can be maximised, with implications for neutron sources, engineering and industry.
Breaking the limit of breaking down lignin
Scientists from the University of Manchester, the East China University of Science and Technology and ISIS Neutron and Muon Source have worked together on one of the hardest tasks in biomass conversion: breaking the limit of lignin monomer production.
Investigating food materials under strain using neutrons and X-rays
Scientists from Delft University of Technology and Unilever have designed the first shear cell that can be used for testing food samples in both neutron and X-ray scattering experiments.
Scientists develop a well-good way to extract oil
Scientists from Swansea University have used ISIS Neutron and Muon Source to investigate a new and, potentially, ‘greener’ way to extract oil that might otherwise remain trapped deep within rocks.
Ionix Advanced Technologies - new materials for new applications
Ionix Advanced Technologies have developed a range of novel piezoelectrics that can be tailored for industrial use, based on experiments using ISIS and Diamond Light Source.
Thinking outside the triangle: Quantum Spin Liquid formed in an unexpected way
A team of researchers from the University of Liverpool and McMaster University observed unusual magnetic behaviour in the perovskite-related metal oxide TbInO3 using HRPD, MuSR and EMU at ISIS.
Turning up the heat on Polaris
A new induction furnace is being developed on Polaris as the result of a collaboration between Aarhus University, ISIS Crystallography Group, the ESS and Chalmers University of Technology.
Scientists hunt for new light-harvesting chemical for more effective solar panels
An international team of scientists, led by the UK, are hunting for new, organic light-harvesting chemicals to make solar panels that are both more effective at creating electricity and are environmentally friendly.
Polar bears inspire paint that's all white for the environment
Scientists working at ISIS Neutron and Muon Source are studying polar bear fur to see what it can reveal about a mechanism found in nature called structural colouration, which is able to create colour without using pigments.
ISIS Materials Characterisation Lab used to prove a novel method of creating a semiconducting thin film
Scientists at the University of Southampton used the Materials Characterisation Lab at ISIS to confirm their development of a novel molecular reagent for a highly functional chemical compound used in thermoelectric generators and solid state data storage.
Secrets of Peptide Assembly unzipped at ISIS
Researchers from China, Manchester and ISIS have used neutrons to gain new insights into peptide self-assembly and the ‘polar zipper’ mechanism, which could improve the development of future peptide-based materials.
A neutron reflectivity study of NIPAM nanogels
A step towards developing novel nanoparticles for dermal drug delivery
Studying shale structure for carbon dioxide storage
Research on NIMROD gives an insight into the carbon dioxide storage potential of shale.
Understanding diffusion in industrial catalysts
An international group of scientists has used ISIS to investigate catalysts for nylon manufacture.
Understanding Viking sword-making techniques
Using neutron diffraction at ISIS to investigate pattern-welding on Viking swords.
Investigating stress-strain response in shape memory alloys
In situ neutron diffraction was used to analyse stress-induced phase transformation.
Understanding copper corrosion in oil
The corrosion of copper in oil is an expensive problem for industry, particularly when it results in the failure of transformers or bearings.
Examining the interplay between magnetism and topology
Solving a tantalising Tantalum mystery
A team of Slovenian researchers undertook muon-spin-relaxation measurements to probe an exotic quantum state.
Probing the underlying physics in quantum spin ladders
An international team of researchers has used high-resolution inelastic neutron scattering to investigate a quantum spin ladder material.
Enhancing performance in important industrial catalysts
Exploring the next generation of solar cell materials
A new method for synthesising oxyhydride materials
Hydrogen-conducting materials have been widely studied for various technological applications, including proton conductors, high-temperature solid oxide fuel components and metals for hydrogen storage.
Neutron studies of cellulose fibres
A team of Portuguese researchers has used neutrons to characterise the structure and packing of cellulose fibrils and their bundles.
Tuning desirable properties in strongly-correlated metals
An international team of researchers has used high-resolution neutron spectroscopy to probe a strongly correlated metal.
The structural and magnetic properties of thin-film yttrium iron garnet
A team of researchers has used a variety of techniques to study the structural and magnetic properties of single crystal thin-film yttrium iron garnet.
Spontaneous decay of a soft optical phonon
An international team of researchers has used the Merlin neutron spectrometer to investigate specific phonon lifetimes.
A computer-generated roadmap to new materials
Researchers at the University of Liverpool developed a strategy to speed up the discovery of new materials.
IRIS studies nickel as a catalyst for benzene and cyclohexane
Using quasielastic neutron scattering (QENS) on IRIS and molecular dynamics simulations, Dr Ian Silverwood and Dr Jeff Armstrong have investigated the diffusion of benzene and cyclohexane adsorbed on a nickel catalyst.
From paleontology to plant roots: IMAT proves effective for life science research
Scientists at ISIS are expanding life science research on IMAT, and have proved its capabilities in this field unveiling the internal structure of teeth, studying fossils and exploring the dynamics of water in soil-plant systems.
Neutrons probe chemical and enzymatic organic removal methods
The study of bone tissue by vibrational spectroscopy may have a high impact in several areas from bioarcheology to regenerative medicine; Adriana Mamede and a team of researchers have been analysing human bone aiming at the development of biomaterials
Neutrons study components used in pursuit of fusion energy
Researchers from the leading fusion projects around the world have visited IMAT to image components for use in a fusion energy device by pairing x-ray and neutron imaging.
Neutrons improve our understanding of gold catalysts used in more environmentally friendly plastic making process
The Merlin spectrometer has been used to investigate gold on carbon catalysts, an environmentally friendly alternative to the volatile and toxic mercury catalysts widely used in the plastic making process.
Neutrons – a breath of fresh air for the offshore wind turbine industry
ENGIN-X has helped tackle one of the most pressing concerns facing the offshore wind turbine industry – the assessment of the structural integrity of turbine foundations.
Neutrons and muons: history, mystery and science meet
It seems strange to consider that neutrons and muons, discovered in the 1930s, should be used to investigate artefacts dating as far back as 10,000 BCE, however such work has been done here at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source.
What makes a good fire-fighting foam?
Researchers at the University of Bristol are using neutrons to investigate fluorocarbon surfactants (soap-like molecules) used in fire-fighting foams to uncover more efficient and environmentally friendly formulations.
Helical magnetic structures helter-skeltering towards skyrmion-based low energy data storage and logic processing.
Using neutrons to measure the helix pitch for calculating of the topological Hall effect (THE)
Improving the efficiency of engine fuel delivery – one neutron at a time
Scientists from City, University of London and Lubrizol Limited have been using neutron technology at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source to test the role that modern additives have in increasing the efficiency of fuel injectors.
Neutrons: an unexpected engineering tool
What do you associate the word “engineering” with? Construction? Electronics? Maths? The list could go on and on, but in all likelihood it would be some time before you’d arrive at “neutrons”.
The elusive encounter complex in Frustrated Lewis Pairs (FLPs) observed for the first time
Total neutron scattering experiments on SANDALS confirm the first experimental presence of catalytically active encounter complexes in FLP solutions.
Artificial intelligence takes on chemistry
There’s a new tool in the lab that’s drastically changing the face of chemical research – artificial intelligence.
Correlating the physico-chemical properties of the bacterial outer membrane to its susceptibility to last resort antibiotic
Scientists from Newcastle University and ISIS Neutron and Muon have used neutron reflectometry at STFC’s ISIS facility to reveal how Polymyxin B (PmB) penetrates the tough outer membrane (OM) of Gram-negative bacteria.
Simulated moon dust on ChipIr
Scientists from the European Space Agency (ESA) and DLR-Cologne are using ChipIr to study lunar soil analogues to investigate their potential use for radiation shielding of future lunar habitats.
Neutrons probe ancient metal reinforcement from one of the largest cathedrals in the world
Researchers have used neutrons to non-destructively study an ancient tie rod from Milan Cathedral, which was a fundamental support to one of the largest churches in the world.
The sword and the neutron - specific use of Bronze Age Swords confirmed by neutron technology
Scientists have been using the latest science to reveal the specific usage of Bronze Age swords dating back to 1400 BCE.
The ISIS Economic Impact Award– activated carbon catalysts
The winners of the ISIS Economic Impact Award used neutrons to gain a greater understanding of activated carbons that will inform future product developments for their industrial partner Chimet S.p.A.
The ISIS Science Impact Award– Modelling the Structure of Metal-organic Framework Glasses
The winner of the ISIS Science Impact Award used neutrons to help reveal the structure of a melt-quenched metal-organic framework glass - the first example of the new hybrid glass family.
The ISIS Society Impact Award– utilising neutrons for non-invasive analysis of arms and armour
The winners of the ISIS Society Impact Award demonstrated the value of neutron techniques for the non-invasive study of irreplaceable historical objects; and some of the most important objects in English history may now be candidates for analysis at ISIS.
Neutrons used to study sustainable sugar-based plastic
Researchers have used inelastic neutron scattering to study the properties of a sugar-based plastic that could start to replace conventional plastic bottles in the near future.
Non-Destructive investigations of iron meteorites using neutron diffraction
Scientists from Universita degli Studi di Firenze and Istituto dei Sistemi Complessi are using neutron diffraction to non-destructively study iron meteorites to reveal conditions during the early formation of the solar system.
Neutrons fill in the gaps in our knowledge of dental cements
With tooth decay impacting 60-90% of schoolchildren and the majority of adults it’s no surprise most of us dread the dentist. Our poor oral health is costing us too, with dental repair one of the most significant healthcare costs in developed countries.
Examining the lifetime of Laundry Detergent Pods
An Industrial-Academic collaboration of scientists have been using neutron reflectometry at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source to investigate surface segregation in water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol films found in common household laundry detergent pods.
Investigating structural and electrochemical changes occurring in doped cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries
Lithium is an essential element for modern life, powering our electronic devices and electric vehicles, but it is a limited and expensive resource. Sodium is cheap and abundant, and a promising alternative for large battery arrays.
Neutron techniques used to study 1400 BC grave goods from Egyptian tomb
Scientists have used neutron tomography on IMAT and Engin-X to non-invasively investigate the content of two artefacts from the tomb of ‘Kha and Merit’, a married couple who walked the streets of Ancient Egypt over 3000 years ago.
Under pressure: neutron diffraction helps unlock the secrets of ice
Given that it makes up 60% of our bodies and is one of the most abundant molecules in the universe it’s no wonder that water is known as the “matrix of life”. However water, and ice, exhibits a range of complex properties that are not well understood.
Testing the robustness of space electronics against more than 100,000 years’ worth of neutrons
Of the many challenges involved in space travel the threat of high energy neutrons may have never crossed your mind. But these subatomic particles can disrupt the electronics that space missions rely on, so we must thoroughly test their impact.
Muons provide a new method for measuring excess carrier lifetime in bulk silicon
Silicon wafers are one of the workhorses of the electronic age, widely used in integrated circuits and many photosensitive devices.
Plant superfood turned extraordinary surface glue: Neutrons reveal all
New research using the INTER reflectometer at ISIS Neutron and Muon Source has revealed how plant proteins can be used to stick particles to solid surfaces, opening up a plethora of potential industrial applications.
Inhibiting the growth of the world’s largest gas resource
Natural gas hydrates may be a vast untapped energy resource but they cause severe problems in oil and gas pipelines and are potent greenhouse gases. To improve our understanding of these problematic compounds methane hydrate was studied using neutrons.
Neutrons prove the perfect tool for understanding correlated electron systems
Inelastic neutron scattering makes it possible to measure and theoretically account for the dynamic magnetic susceptibility arising from correlated electron bands
Stuck on you – SURF reflectometer reveals adsorption qualities of a novel class of bio-therapeutics
A collaboration of scientists from the University of Manchester and MedImmune LLC have used neutron reflection at ISIS to investigate the interfacial adsorption of a monoclonal antibody at the solid/water interface.
The power of Metal-Organic Frameworks – collaborative research at Harwell Campus paves the way for innovation
From using Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) to trap nuclear waste to evidencing the first liquid MOF, pioneering research involving Diamond Light Source and ISIS Neutron and Muon Source is advancing our understanding of these remarkable materials.
Tackling Cancer at the Nanoscale An investigation into cyclic peptide-polymer anti-cancer drug delivery systems
Neutron scattering at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source has provided unique insights into a novel anti-cancer therapy; using cyclic peptide-polymer nanotubes as functional drug carrier systems.
Probing peptide-polymer nanotubes with neutrons
Scientists are using small angle neutron scattering to investigate the dynamics of self-assembling cyclic peptide-polymer nanotubes.
Neutron imaging study dives deep into pearls
A non-destructive neutron technique has been used to study the inner morphology of one of mankind’s most precious biological samples – the pearl.
Open University and EDF Energy collaborate to extend the life of Advanced Gas Cooler Reactors
As one of the UK’s largest energy providers, EDF Energy operate 14 Advanced Gas Cooler Reactors (AGRs) to generate low carbon electricity.
Texture analysis of Napoleonic war era copper bolts
In recognition of the 2018 Year of Engineering, this science highlight focuses on exciting historical research undertaken using ENGIN-X, a dedicated engineering science facility at ISIS.
New insights into planet formation using NIMROD
Scientists from The Open University and Technical University Braunschweig are using NIMROD to study the structural properties of micrometer-sized icy particles – analogues of interstellar ice – to gain insight into processes that lead to planet formation.
Neutrons, muons and the battery revolution
The last two decades have brought a real revolution in personal electronics, all powered by the lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery.
Fingerprints of Mn12: the forefather of Molecular Nanomagnets
Single-molecule magnets offer great potential as a future technology for data storage. In these systems each molecule is able to host a bit of information, pushing the storage capability of our devices to the singular molecular level.
Investigating the magnetic field – temperature phase diagram of MnSi: it’s not easy to untwist!
Neutron scattering has allowed researchers to investigate the magnetic phase diagram of the chiral magnet MnSi in depth, leading to results that challenge established approaches to chiral magnetism.
Neutrons reveal secret to sweetness
Scientists have used neutron diffraction to study hydrogen bonding between monosaccharides and water to investigate the link between hydration and sweetness.
Getting to grips with corrosion
Neutron reflectometry has been used to improve our fundamental understanding of corrosion and corrosion inhibitors.
Neutrons delve deep into novel fuel cell materials
Researchers from the UK and Saudi Arabia have used neutrons to successfully investigate novel anode materials for use in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs).
Yttrium Iron Garnet – a gemstone that could revolutionise how we transfer information
Yttrium Iron Garnet (YIG) is an artificial Garnet (similar to the semiprecious stone) used in various microwave, acoustic, and optical devices.
Majorana fermions in α-Ruthenium(III) chloride
There’s considerable interest in fundamental magnetism at the moment, with the use of topological concepts (mathematical techniques which won the 2016 Nobel Prize in Physics) allowing us to study unusual phases, or states, of matter.
Testing samples for Rolls Royce
Nickel based superalloys are a class of material designed for high-temperature applications, such as turbine blades for jet engines. During the manufacturing process single crystal turbine blades are subject to a series of heat treatments.
In a spin: uncovering a nematic transition
Researchers conducting a fairly routine systematic investigation of spinel materials have made a serendipitous discovery that could well be the first experimental proof of part of a long-standing and well-used theory.
Using neutron scattering to address complex additive challenges
Understanding the mechanism by which detergent particles are formed is crucial for their improved development and design.
LOQ instrument aids in structural characterisation of key bacterial protein
Small-angle neutron scattering allowed scientists to probe the conformation of KorB, an intrinsically-disordered protein required for DNA partitioning and transcriptional repression in bacteria, in the presence of both DNA and the partner protein KorA.
Using Vibrations to Understand the Detailed Dynamics of Metal-Organic Frameworks
New research using spectroscopy and theory investigates what vibrational modes can tell us about of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Understanding the behaviour of MOFs is important for their potential use in technologies that may benefit society.
SANDALS diffractometer sheds light on the enigma of Martian channel formation
In collaboration with ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, a team led by Dr Lorna Dougan at the University of Leeds have used neutron diffraction to study the structure of a mimetic of Martian water known as magnesium perchlorate aqueous solution.
One small step for sensors one giant leap for the hydrogen economy?
Scientists have used neutrons to help develop an extremely sensitive hydrogen sensor that can detect even the smallest of leaks. This discovery brings us one step closer to safely utilising hydrogen as a low carbon emission energy carrier.
The past, present and future of inelastic neutron scattering
The use of electron-volt neutron spectroscopy in materials research is a growing area of neutron science, capitalizing upon the unique insights provided by epithermal neutrons on the behaviour and properties of an increasing number of complex materials.
ISIS/Reading Collaboration Develops New Technique to Unlock Climate Secrets of Clouds
Recent work on the INTER reflectometer demonstrates the utility of combining an infrared beam with the neutron beam in order to probe complex systems critical to the climatic function of clouds and aerosol particles.
Green Solutions: Deep Eutectic Solvents
First reported in 2001 (by Abbott et al), Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) are part of an extended class of ionic liquids.
Perfectly imperfect: why it pays to mix it up with nanoparticles
The discovery of bucky balls (the spherical molecules of Buckminsterfullerene, C60) in 1985 led to a Nobel Prize (in 1996) and the development of a new branch of chemistry.
Evidence of topological excitations in a quantum magnet
Condensed matter physics is the study of how matter can organise itself. The different forms a material can take are called phases, and these phases determine the properties of the material – for example metals, magnets, insulators or superconductors.
Investigating the origin of excellent thermoelectric behaviour in Cu2Se
In a world that is trying to balance an ever-increasing demand for electricity with a reduction in carbon emissions, energy efficiency is a hot topic.
Prof Sean Langridge
Research on improving antibiotic carried out at ISIS
Investigating the structure of a new class of concentrated metal-amine liquids
Metal-amine solutions have been a fascinating curiosity since their discovery by Sir Humphry Davy in 1808.
No stone left unturned to solve 12,000-year-old medical mystery
A mystery surrounding three stone-like objects found within the pelvic region of a 12,000-year-old human skeleton has been solved thanks to the analytical capability of the UK’s neutron beam research facility.
New insights into nanoceria synthesis using SANDALS
Scientists from Universities of Bath and Cambridge have developed a new, green synthetic route for cerium oxide – an important component in catalytic converters and solid oxide fuel cells – using neutron diffraction to determine the mechanism of reaction.
Effects of cosmic ray irradiation on organic electronics for aviation
Minimising payload is vital in aviation and space applications, and one option is to replace conventional inorganic electronics with organic-based devices.
Intracellular water – an overlooked cancer drug target?
Scientists have identified a potential new target for the development of anticancer drugs against metastatic breast cancer.
Photo µSR gives insights into key industrial processes and fundamental science
A group of scientists have been working with ISIS to develop the technique of photo-µSR, which they believe will allow them to watch these processes occur, atom by atom.
Water: the liquid of life
Neutrons, such as those produced at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, are an ideal tool for investigating water because of how clearly they can see hydrogen atoms.
How to deliver drugs across the picky blood-brain barrier
Less than 2% of small molecules, including therapeutics, are able to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and reach the brain from the bloodstream.
Neutron Scattering in Catalysis and Energy Materials
As we move away from our dependency on fossil fuels and work towards cleaner energy resources and chemical conversion it is key to further our understanding of catalysis.
Solitary magnons in calcium ferrate
Materials that display localised electronic or magnetic behaviour are of wide interest in physics. One reason is that they can provide insights into unusual quantum phenomena, as seen in single molecular magnets for example.
Scientists gather to discuss the future of tackling infectious diseases
World-leading neutron scientists gathered last week to discuss the latest findings in the development of drugs to tackle infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance.
Neutrons could reveal how pesticides protect crops
Scientists have created a model of a leaf’s waxy surface, similar to those found in wheat crops, in a project supported by the agrochemical company, Syngenta.
Solving the structure of fundamental bacterial protein
Scientists have discovered the much debated structure of a fundamental bacterial protein, through a combination of neutron and x-ray studies, and computational modelling.
Frozen frog gives clues to improving freeze storage techniques
In neutron diffraction studies on the SANDALS instrument at ISIS, the team re-created freezing conditions to see how glycerol affects the structure of water, at the molecular level.
Novel catalyst achieves record-high yields of biofuel
Scientists have designed a novel catalyst that overcomes the challenge of breaking down complex plant components to produce some of the highest yields of biofuel.
Neutrons reveal potential of MOFs as host structure for methane hydrates
Methane storage in the form of gas hydrates, the so-called solid methane storage, has gained an increased interest in the last few years for safe and easy transportation of methane in short and long-distance applications.
Fish-eye view into cryopreservation
Scientists from the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source have solved the mechanism behind the long-term freeze storage technique ‘cryopreservation’ that is used to preserve the embryos of species that are in danger of extinction.
To freeze or not to freeze? The strange case of NIMROD and confined CO2
How fluids behave when contained within porous materials is of interest in a range of diverse applications. However, it is not that well understood
Anthrax toxin: a new tool in the fight against cancer?
For the first time, scientists have disarmed the anthrax toxin and converted it into a positive tool for delivering drugs for a specific form of gene therapy, an experimental technique that treats disease by replacing or inactivating faulty genes.
Probing the past with negative muons
Using negative muons as a tool for elemental analysis is now possible at ISIS.
Detecting hidden patterns on ancient swords
Hidden ‘Damascus’ patterns in the steel used to make ancient Indo-Persian swords and daggers are being uncovered by collaborators from London’s Wallace Collection and CNR, Italy, during neutron diffraction experiments at ISIS.
Developing new forensic techniques with the help of neutrons
New forensic techniques to help with the positive identification of unknown victims based on their burned skeletal remains are being developed by bone experts working beside neutron scientists.
Neutrons help understand cracks in nuclear reactor moderator materials
In neutron diffraction studies, researchers investigated how the graphite material used in UK Nuclear Reactors deforms non-linearly under stress, to show how the material has some tolerance to damage.
Neutrons help in the fight against antibiotic resistance
Researchers at ISIS Neutron and Muon Source in collaboration with Newcastle University have created the first model of the outer membrane of the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli).
Energy Harvesting; ISIS offers unique insights into Molten Salt Mixtures
We all recognise that solar energy is a renewable energy source. Energy harvesting – the capture and storage of solar energy – is therefore becoming more and more important in our increasingly energy hungry society.
Staying safe in the skies
It may surprise you to learn just how much ISIS has contributed to airline safety over the last few years, so here are some examples of how science is helping to keep us safe.
ISIS features on the cover of the journal of Materials Chemistry A!
The cover picture on the most recent issue of Journal of Materials Chemistry A features a paper presenting results from an experiment carried out at ISIS using the POLARIS instrument.
Inelastic neutron scattering shows new limits for hydrogen storage densities
Researchers at the Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Bath, the Rutherford Appleton Laboratories (RAL), the USA and Germany have uncovered some unexpected behavior of hydrogen gas when it is contained in optimally-sized sub-nanometer pores.
PEARL Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using PEARL here.
ISIS and exploding bubbles in the fight against cancer
ISIS is playing an increasingly important role in cancer research.
A spin density wave state in strontium ruthenate
The search for novel states of matter have led many researchers to focus on layered oxide metals. These contain planes of atoms which dominate the electrical conduction.
Unravelling the Physical Possibilities of MOFs
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a promising new class of next-generation materials.
Powerful new tool gives hope of overcoming antibiotic resistance.
Bacterial resistance to antibiotics has become one of the biggest health concerns of the 21st century. New work into disabling rather than destroying bacteria may help mankind win the on-going battle against bacterial disease and antibiotic resistance.
New chemical sponge has potential to mitigate carbon footprint of oil industry
UK scientists have discovered a ground-breaking technique with the potential to dramatically reduce the amount of energy used in the refinement of crude oil.
Tracking the movements of the killer behind dementia and heart disease
Cholesterol is vital to the human body. It is an essential component in the membranes of cells as well as necessary for the production of important hormones and the transport of chemical signals.
Can you recognise nucleic acids? No, but nucleolipid-dendrimer complexes can!
Genetic disorders can be caused by mutations within the individual’s genetic code, resulting in the formation of non-functioning proteins. Normal cellular processes are therefore inhibited.
Helping the hunt for lead-free piezoelectrics
Piezoelectrics are a class of material that generates an electric charge when subject to mechanical stress. Discovered by Pierre and Jacques Curie in 1880, an early application of the phenomenon was in sonar during the First World War.
Neutrons and colliding particles encourage hopes for nanotech revolution
Carbon plays a crucial role as a building block for nanotechnology. Carbon nanosystems have shown a number of commercially desirable properties such as super lubricity and super diffusion, as well as great strength and hardness.
Testing a “model” magnetic system
Many real magnetic materials are called “model” systems, meaning they are believed to be good test candidates for understanding new physical phenomena.
New UK facility aims to protect next generation microchips from cosmic ray chaos
UK scientists have built a new facility aimed at understanding how particles from space can interact with electronic devices, and to investigate the chaos that cosmic rays can cause.
Optimising machining strategies for Boeing
Understanding the development and distribution of residual stresses caused by machining is key to improving machining processes.
Breaking the Barriers to a solar Future
Researchers at the University of Sheffield, University of Durham and ISIS in collaboration with Start-up Company Ossila are using neutron reflectometry to look the formation of plastic solar cell films.
Building safer ships with Lloyd’s Register
Ultrasonic peening (UP) is a technique for improving the fatigue performance of welded joints.
Testing new welding techniques for the nuclear industry with AREVA
Introduction of new designs, novel fabrication methods or modifications to existing plant in the nuclear power generation industry are subject to intense scrutiny to ensure that safety is not compromised.
A spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down.
Studies at ISIS have revealed that packaging platinum and palladium based anti-cancer drugs in a sugary coating protects them from being captured by natural antioxidants in the body.
Going to the extreme
For most of us, temperatures around the mid-twenties and a light breeze, sounds like the ideal environment - anything over or under this happy medium and we start to feel a little under pressure.
Structure of nanoparticle supplements ‘ironed out’ to improve therapies
We might not be coated in an iron exoskeleton, but much like the fictional character Iron Man, this element plays a vital role in powering our bodies.
An antibody with a twist
In recent years a swarm of new antibody-based drugs have hit the market, offering treatment for cancer, autoimmunity, and infectious diseases.
Hydrogen breakthrough could be a game-changer for the future of car fuels
23 June 2014 – UK researchers today announced what they believe to be a game changer in the use of hydrogen as a “green” fuel.
One coin’s loss is another coin gained
Neutrons reveal the loss of silver through time in ancient Celtic coins
A fine blue Line - Just how reliable are home pregnancy tests?
The earliest home pregnancy test can be traced back as far as ancient Egypt where women tested their urine on wheat and barley seeds.
New magnetic phase discovered in iron-based superconductors
Scientists from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory have discovered a previously unknown phase in a class of superconductors called iron arsenides using ISIS.
ISIS helps CERN experiment test the Standard Model of Particle Physics
Nobel prize winning physicist Leon Lederman once described his ambition “To see all of physics reduced to a formula so elegant and simple that it will fit easily on the front of a t-shirt.”
Why do nanogels need to cross the skin? To get the drugs to the other side.
We’ve all heard of nicotine patches that deliver specific doses of the drug painlessly and continuously through the skin.
What do you do when the oil runs out? You make it!
Neutrons have been used to understand Fischer-Tropsch chemistry, an industrial process for generating gasoline and diesel from a variety of carbon sources.
New oral delivery system for vaccines could help to combat infectious diseases.
Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD) or Gumboro’s disease is caused by the highly contagious Infectious Bursal Disease Virus (IBDV) and is widespread in commercial chicken flocks.
TOSCA Science Highlights
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MARI Science Highlights
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Might muons and a microwave make marvellous materials?
Captured in stars like the sun, energy has been stored since the formation of the universe itself. This solar power lies amongst all kinds of energy stores such as wind, plant and tidal sources that help feed our global appetite for energy.
Trapping magnetic monopoles in spin ice
Electrically isolated charges are common in nature, most notably in the form of individual electrons. However the equivalent in magnetism, the magnetic monopole, has proved far more elusive.
ISIS prescribes Engin-X for Oxfordshire artefacts
Neutron diffraction measurements can benefit the conservation of irreplaceable artefacts.
Forensic scientist studies submerged bones at ISIS
Could neutrons reveal clues for forensic investigations in aquatic environments?
Muons make the most of waste heat
Approximately 90% of the world’s electricity comes from heat energy generated by fossil fuels. These power stations operate at about 30 – 40% efficiency, with the remaining heat being lost to the environment.
Shining the beam on anti-cancer drugs
Platinum-based drugs are known for their anticancer ability. Cisplatin, the most famous and most widely prescribed drug of this kind, offers treatment for several types of cancer such as testicular, lung, bladder and ovarian cancers.
Unravelling the boundaries in a solid-liquid relationship
In nature many different and fascinating solid-liquid relationships exist...
Helping make hydrogen cars a reality
Toyota, who hope to release a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle in 2015, have been working with ISIS scientists to address a key challenge: hydrogen loss during cycling.
Assessing neutron-induced effects on NVIDIA Graphics Processing Units
Neutron radiation can damage graphics processing units (GPUs), so industry is interested in investigating what the effects could be.
New insights into high temperature superconductors
Superconductors are materials where below a certain critical temperature (Tc) all electrical resistance disappears. Discovered in 1911, superconductors have the potential to revolutionise the ways in which we store and transport electricity.
ISIS: Making Muons for a quarter of a century.
To mark the publication of a special edition of Physica Scripta, ISIS muons for materials and molecular sciences, ISIS looks back on the last 25 years of muons and their achievements.
Leaner surfactants make for greener solvents
Carbon dioxide is a molecule with a bad reputation – as a greenhouse gas it contributes to global warming, and plays a major role in climate change.
Could plastic waste make better batteries?
Heating plastic carrier bags to very high temperatures produces a form of carbon that could help improve the properties of batteries.
ISIS ‘oils the wheels’ in the study of lubricant additives
In times where cracking down on energy consumption, cutting emissions and saving resources are central environmental concerns – enhanced lubricants, with the potential to increase operating efficiency in many systems, are attracting global interest.
Quantum effects explain similar melting points of light and heavy water
Water is a familiar substance. It is vital to life and covers over 70% of the surface of the Earth.
Opposites attract - Building cationic nanocarriers for anionic drugs.
Nanotechnology is all about little things with a big impact.
New nanostructure shows promise for future service in the war on breast cancer
One in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime, making it the most common cancer in the UK. If caught early, treatment options are positive.
The role of water in protein folding
Proteins are large macromolecules that are required by almost all living organisms in order to function. Every protein is composed of a long chain of amino acids which fold into a particular shape that allows the protein to do its work.
Mastering Membrane Mimicking to Outsmart Bacteria
We’ve all heard of E.coli, but you might be surprised to realise that our digestive system is home to a load of it.
Stronger, greener cement could make for maintenance-free building materials
The expanding global population requires new infrastructure to support it, and there is an increasing demand for durable, environmentally sound building materials.
When is a ferroelectric not a ferroelectric?
Ferroelectrics are insulating materials with an electrical polarisation that can be switched by an applied voltage. Ferroelectricity cannot occur in metals because polarisation would be screened by the conduction electrons.
TWI examines the acceptability of flaws in pipelines under high plastic strain
The outcome of a study carried out by engineering consultancy TWI and ISIS has important implications for the oil, gas and nuclear industries.
Study to generate electricity from waste heat points to global energy solution
A major milestone in the quest to find more efficient ways of generating electricity from waste heat, and to reduce carbon emissions, has real potential in a vast range of applications.
ISIS research into nuclear graphite could ‘keep the UK’s lights on’
Uncertainty over the future integrity of graphite moderators in Advanced Gas-cooled nuclear Reactors (AGRs) could result in their premature shutdown before sufficient new nuclear or gas power stations come on-stream.
Studying recrystallization of deformed metals – a new tool for metallurgy?
Recrystallization of deformed metals occurs in a lot of industrial processes, including the hot-deformation and heat treatment of metals and alloys.
Passing the Electron Baton.
Scientists have used to neutrons to discover how an enzyme involved in drug metabolism, Cytochrome P450 Reductase (CPR), performs like a runner in a relay race.
New capabilities for catalysis studies at ISIS
Catalysis is big business, and industry is keen to understand and improve catalytic processes. An estimated 80% of all man-made materials use catalysts during manufacturing, and as a result up to 35% of the world’s GDP relies on catalysis.
Letting the train take the strain
A consortium of train manufacturers, operators and standards bodies have used Engin-X to understand cracking in train wheels.
ISIS is helping to close the gap in the race to develop novel antibiotics.
Penicillin is stacked high in pharmacies and hospitals across the globe and proven in combat against bronchitis, pneumonia and pharyngitis.
The Linde Group launches revolutionary carbon nanotube ink with help from ISIS
The Linde Group, a world-leading gases and engineering company, has launched SEERe-Ink, a revolutionary ink based on carbon nanotubes for use in flat screen TVs, touchscreens and solar cells.
Magnetic frustration in SrHo2O4 - Mantid helps WISH deliver on single crystals
Magnetic frustration stems from the inability of magnetic systems to simultaneously minimise the energy of all interactions in the system in order to reach a unique ground state.
Every cloud has a lipid lining
Floating on ships in the Indian Ocean, researchers noticed that clouds drifting downwind of a city had different reflectivity to clouds which didn’t come downwind of a city.
Can biological minerals made by bacteria clean-up contaminated Fukushima soils?
On 11th March, 2011, a 9.0 magnitude undersea earthquake occurred off the Pacific coast of Tōhoku, generating powerful tsunami waves and resulting in a human death toll of over 19,000.
Reinventing chemistry in an environmentally friendly way
A large number of both useful commodities and fine chemicals are currently obtained by catalytic synthetic processes, but usually this does not happen in water.
Solving a 20 Year Mystery: The Frustrating Case of ß-Manganese
Manganese is a common element, the 12th most abundant element in the Earth's crust. It’s essential to all forms of life, and used in industrial processes such as steel production.
Neutrons could help us to breathe more easily
Coughing, wheezing and tightening of the chest. Asthma sufferers can relate, particularly in cities during the summer time when asthma symptoms are exacerbated. One of the causes? Ozone.
A three-pronged attack on zeolites for the petrochemical industry
In the petrochemical industry the separation of propylene from propane is both an important and challenging process. The current process, cryogenic distillation, is one of the most energy demanding in the whole refinery.
The role of spin-orbit interaction in organic semiconductors
Traditional electronics relies on the charge of an electron to carry information. But the demand for smaller, faster electronics has caused scientists to look at another property of electrons – spin.
Solar flares, muons and micro-electronics – what’s the connection?
Here on Earth, such spectacular solar flares seem far away but in fact these extra-terrestrial events are a cause for concern in our modern digital world.
Solar flares, muons and micro-electronics – what’s the connection?
Here on Earth, such spectacular solar flares seem far away but in fact these extra-terrestrial events are a cause for concern in our modern digital world.
Vesuvio Science Highlights
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Drug delivery stays on target
Imagine. You are a tiny, injectable ball. Within your core you carry a drug designed to treat a specific diseased tissue.
First steps to a brainy computer
The brain, at the centre of the nervous system, is the most complex organ in the body. A vast neural network of around 100 billion neurons makes connections via synapses and is thought to be the basis of memory
Nanoparticles, small but mighty
Nanoparticles, defined as being between 100 and 1 nanometers in size, stir excitement amongst researchers due to a wide variety of potential applications in biomedical, optical and electronic fields.
Watering the plants - neutron insights into cellulose
People with a self-confessed sweet tooth add sugar to their tea or coffee, and when stirred, the sugar dissolves. But cellulose, a plant sugar that is found in the primary cell wall of green plants, does not readily dissolve in water.
Capturing a cleaner future
Greenhouse gases and their effects are looming over us like a ticking alarm clock. The attention of UK scientists has been drawn to combating global warming through a technique which captures these harmful gases.
Think twice before squishing that spider!
...because spiders are more than just ‘eight-legged freaks’ that haunt the dark corners of your garden shed.
Seeing into Bacteria
Neutron radiation can reveal the structure of cell membranes
Molecules make the perfect filling for a superconducting sandwich
Since the discovery in 2008 of superconducting materials based on iron there has been intense research into how their superconducting critical temperature can be increased.
Tough Bioglass could banish bone replacements
New research from the ISIS Neutron and Muon source is being used to extend the potential range of uses for bioglasses without compromising their ability to stimulate new bone growth.
A new family of unconventional superconductors?
A collaboration between theorists and experimentalists in the UK have proposed a new family of unconventional nickel-based superconductors.
SXD Science Highlights
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Giving industry a clearer understanding of catalysts
ISIS has provided a manufacturer of industrial catalysts with unprecedented atomic-scale insights into one of their key products.
Researchers using ISIS neutron and muon beams win prestigious Europhysics prize
The 2012 Europhysics Prize for condensed matter physics has been awarded to...
Giant improper ferroelectricity is discovered in the ferroaxial magnet, CaMn7O12
Neutron diffraction studies at ISIS have given scientists new insights into the nature of certain magnetic materials, work that has led to a major breakthrough in the field of multiferroics.
MAPS Science Highlights
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Mystery of car battery material solved
ISIS has helped chemists to solve the 150 year-old mystery of what gives lead oxide, the main component of the lead-acid battery that is found under the bonnet of most cars, its unique properties.
Why staying warm in winter is a bit more complicated if you’re a lizard
Recent studies at the ISIS neutron source, the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s (STFC) world leading research centre, have given a new insight into the mysterious ‘anti-freeze’ capabilities of glycerol – a property successfully used in nature.
Ecoli packs a punch
Neutron scattering experiments have given a new insight into how E. coli bacteria, often associated with food poisoning, kill each other in the evolutionary competition for food and space.
Antiferromagnetic tendencies in superconducting LiFeAs.
Superconductors are widely used to provide high magnetic fields for many applications. The material, LiFeAs, was studied as a member of a family of iron-based superconductors.
Low energy spin-gap studies of LiErF4
The high resolution of the new LET instrument enables scientist to investigate materials in order to answer fundamental questions in quantum physics.
ISIS helps UK magnesium producer with a cracking problem
Scientists from ISIS have worked in partnership with UK company Magnesium Elektron to solve manufacturing challenges.
Understanding the deep Earth
Studies at ISIS reveal important information about the behaviour of a post-perovskite.
Neutron Compton scattering in moderate-mass systems
This study suggests for the first time that the technique of Neutron Compton scattering (NCS) may be extended beyond the study of the lightest elements (such as H or He isotopes) to give additional information about the profile widths of heavier nuclei.
Mapping out a quantum spin liquid
Muons are used to probe the magnetic properties of a phase that is of great interest to physicists.
Let probes excitations in a quantum Ising chain
The newly commissioned Let spectrometer on the ISIS Second Target Station, combined with the vertical-opening 9 T magnet and dilution refrigerator insert, offers unparalleled opportunities for probing atomic dynamics with high resolution and wide coverage
Using neutrons to probe electron clouds in crystals
Neutron scattering proves to be a useful way of investigating the behaviour of electron clouds.
Good chemistry between magnetism and superconductivity
Superconductive and magnetic materials, a rare combination, have been brought together and ISIS muons have been used to investigate the result for the first time.
Understanding the role of oxygen vacancies in a spintronics semiconductor
Electron-doped europium oxide (EuO) is a semiconductor which undergoes a simultaneous ferromagnetic and metal-to-insulator phase transition, across which the resistivity drops by 8 to 13 orders of magnitude.
Slow magnetic crossover in the frustrated magnet Ca3Co2O6
A powder diffraction study reveals an unexpected structural transformation of the compound Ca3Co2O6 below 12K.
Nanostructured ionic liquids
Neutron diffraction and computer simulation are used to study the structure of ionic liquids, which are widely used to conduct chemical reactions.
Polymers in prison
High-resolution inelastic neutron scattering experiments reveal that the polymer, poly(ethylene oxide), under extreme confinement adopts a conformation different to that of the bulk crystal.
Butterflies and bridges
While covalent bonds are usually formed by sharing two electrons between two atoms, some compounds contain B–H–B bonds in which an electron pair is distributed over three sites.
Influence of lone-pair cations on the germanate anomaly in glass
Neutron diffraction has been used to prove that lone pair cations can change their behaviour as glass composition is changed.
Protein motion in red blood cells
Neutron scattering experiments help to reveal the motion of haemoglobin in red blood cells, enabling scientists to gain a better understanding of protein dynamics at the molecular level.
Spreadable polymer solar cells
Neutron reflectivity studies provide insights into the manufacture of cheap solar cell panels, which could provide a solution to the world's growing energy demands.
Getting the hole picture: porosity in activated carbons
Small angle neutron scattering is used to investigate materials which could be used for hydrogen storage.
Understanding a catalyst from formula to mechanism
Neutron and x-ray powder diffraction and several other techniques are used to characterise hydrous palladium oxide, a key component of catalytic converters.
Developing methods for detecting hazardous radioisotopes emitted by the nuclear power industry
Small angle neutron scattering is used to probe microemulsion systems, in order to help develop methods for detecting hazardous radioisotopes emitted by the nuclear power industry.
How does the antibiotic amphotericin work?
Scientists at ISIS use neutron reflectivity and small-angle neutron scattering to uncover more about the mysterious drug amphotericin.
The unusual behaviour of a plant seed defence protein
Using a combination of techniques, the unique structure of an important plant defense protein is discovered, which could have implications in drug delivery systems and antibiotics.
Muonium and hydrogen centres in sulphur
Muon level-crossing resonance and supercell calculations show how ion-implanted muons and protons create molecular radicals that can switch conformation on subnanosecond timescales and initiate polysulphide generation.
Muons explore a new plateau
Dynamics of a frustrated magnet revealed
Molecular magnets at crossing point
First detection of an energy level crossing in a molecular nanomagnet with implanted muons.
Molecular magnets at a crossing point
First detection of an energy level crossing in a molecular nanomagnet with implanted muons.
‘Cling-film’ solar cells could lead to advance in renewable energy
A new study shows that even when using very simple and inexpensive manufacturing methods - where flexible layers of material are deposited over large areas like cling-film - efficient solar cell structures can be made.
Unravelling elastin, nature’s ‘nanospring’
Using neutron experiments and other state-of-the-art techniques, scientists have revealed the shape of the protein that gives human tissues their elastic properties. This discovery might lead to the development of new synthetic ‘elastin-like’ materials.
SANS2D science highlights
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LET Science Highlights
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INES Science Highlights
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Searching for a cure for Cryptococcal Meningitis
Scientists are making progress in their quest to find an improved antibiotic for a strain of meningitis that results in over half a million deaths a year worldwide.
Quantum mapmakers complete first voyage through spin liquid
Scientists from two of Oxfordshire’s leading research centres have completed the painstaking and careful mapping of the features of one of the most exotic states of matter in the universe found close to absolute zero in a particular example of a chemicall
Giant magneto-elastic coupling could lead to more efficient fridges
ISIS has helped scientists gather new data on how a material behaves at high temperatures and in strong magnetic fields which could lead to more efficient fridges and cooling systems.
From outer space volcanoes to nanotechnology
Neutron scattering conducted at ISIS and the Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) has discovered that methanol crystals that may be found in outer solar system ‘ice lavas’ have unusual expansion properties.
New spin-out company from ISIS develops emission-free hydrogen fuel for cars
Cella Energy Limited has developed a novel technology that allows hydrogen to be stored in a cheap and practical way, making it suitable for widespread use as a carbon-free alternative to petrol.
SANDALS Science Highlights
Science highlights from the SANDALS instrument
Good chemistry between magnetism and superconductivity
Scientists from Spain and the United Kingdom have recently used ISIS muons to demonstrate the success of a new method for combining materials with different properties.
ISIS helps extend the life of oil reserves
A research team led by the University of Bristol has used STFC’s ISIS Neutron Source to come up with a new way to treat carbon dioxide (CO2), so that it can be used in efficient and environmentally friendly methods for extracting oil.
Changes in proton zero-point energy responsible for DNA phase change
A recent experiment using Vesuvio spectrometer, by scientists from the University of Houston, the University of Rome and ISIS, has shown that the zero-point energy change in protons is significant for the transformation of A phase to B phase DNA.
Superconductivity research at ISIS
Superconductors have two remarkable properties: they conduct electricity without resistance and they expel magnetic fields from the bulk of their interior.
Quantum melting of magnetic order in an Ising spin chain
The quantum phase transition paradigm for a 1D Ising chain placed in a transverse applied magnetic field has been realised experimentally for the first time, at ISIS.
A time-resolved study into the growth of large silica-surfactant particles
Studying the growth of silica-surfactant architectures during the formation of mesoporous silicates is pivotal to understand how these materials may be used in catalysts, drug delivery, and nanotechnology.
How neutrons can improve orthopaedic implants
The use of surface coatings in orthopaedic and dental implants has significantly improved the quality of human life.
Understanding flow in ice-rock mixtures
The rheology of multi-phase materials is of relevance to a broad range of applications.
Getting on top of calcite
Calcite is an extremely important mineral in sedimentary deposits and in many industrial processes. This is particularly evident in water heating where it forms ‘scale’ in hard water areas due to its retrograde solubility (solubility falls on heating).
Solution structure of proteasome activators
In biological cells, the so-called ‘20S proteasome’ is responsible for breaking down damaged or unneeded proteins so they can be recycled into new ones.
Exploring membrane activity of plant seed defence proteins
Plants are constantly exposed to pathogens and, in response, have developed multiple defence mechanisms that include the expression of antimicrobial proteins.
NIMROD gives insight into the structural kinetics of polymer crystallisation
Many technologically important polymers are partially crystalline and their crystalline structure and morphology are critical to delivering the required properties.
Optimising polymer solutions for printed electronics
The development of polymer-based optoelectronic devices (or ‘plastic solar cells’) that could deliver electricity at a competitive cost is a key area of research. Solutions of conjugated polymers can be ‘printed’ to produce the active layer of low-cost s
Proton harmonic motion in ice
There is currently great interest in probing the quantum state of the proton in ice.
Towards controlled proton transfer:tuning proton behaviour in a ternary molecule
Intermolecular proton transfer through hydrogen bonds has wide-ranging implications in fields as diverse as ferroelectrics, electrochemical processes, and enzymatic activity.
π – π interactions in aromatic liquids
Aromatic π – π interactions between benzene-like chemical groups play a key role in many important scientific phenomena.
Twists, bends, and stretches in Li(NH3)4, the lightest metal known
When alkali metals are dissolved in anhydrous liquid ammonia they give up their outer-shell electrons to the solvent producing solvated electrons and metal ions.
Confinement phenomenon observed in spin ladders
Confinement is the binding of particles by an interaction whose strength grows with separation.
Strongly correlated alkali fullerides
Alkali-doped fullerides are the simplest type of high-Tc superconductors.
Magnetic excitation spectrum of Fe1+yTe1-xSex
The recent discovery of superconductivity with Tc up to 55 K in Fe-based materials has generated much excitement, yet the mechanism underpinning superconductivity in these ‘unconventional’ superconductors remains elusive.
Hydrogen absorption in Ti/Mg multilayers studied by neutron reflectometry
Mg-Ti thin film alloys have large hydrogen storage capacities, fast hydrogen absorption/desorption kinetics and are structurally stable.
Tipping the magneto-elastic balance
‘Smart’ materials display a plethora of potentially useful properties, and these can interact with each other giving rise to new phenomena.
Magnetricity
The transport of electrically charged quasiparticles (based on electrons, holes or ions) plays a pivotal role in modern technology as well as determining the essential function of biological organisms.
Characterisation of nickel-based superalloys as used in aero-engine turbine disc
Nickel-based superalloys are a family of materials designed to exhibit both exceptional mechanical properties and superior corrosion resistance at very high temperatures.
Structural studies of Ca-Mg-Zn bulk metallic glasses
Bulk metallic glasses have unique properties which offer potential developments for a wide range of technological applications.
Magnetism research at ISIS
We can determine the magnetic field strength, direction and order in a material – for example, antiferromagnetism - even in layers only a few nanometres thick.
Semiconductor research at ISIS
Semiconductors are present in forms of modern technology ranging from computers to solar cells.
Structure research at ISIS
The structure of materials takes a vital role in determining their properties. We investigate how atoms and molecules bind to each other to determine atomic and molecular structures. We can find where the atoms sit and the bond strengths between them.
Breakthrough in aromatic molecule research
New experimental data by from the ISIS neutron source on how ring-shaped molecules pack together in liquids could lead to more efficient drug design.
Frustrated magnetism in superconducting fullerides
Researchers from the universities of Liverpool and Durham have used ISIS muons as part of a study published in this week’s Nature.
Zoom Science Highlights
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Breakthrough for babies born with severe cleft palates after experiments at ISIS
Scientists working on a treatment for babies born with cleft palates have made a promising breakthrough and the first clinical trials are planned for early next year.
Conductivity linked to quantum state of the proton in Nafion-like materials
Measurements of proton momentum distributions on VESUVIO on solutions of different NAFION-type materials reveal a link between conductivity and the quantum state of the proton as well as a clear difference from the momentum distributions seen in bulk wate
Muon Applications
Case study: Extending the life of hip implants
By studying stress, researchers from Heriot Watt University and ISIS could extend the life of orthopaedic implants.
The ISIS proton sychrotron - beam data aquisition and analysis
A paper demonstrating the benefits of new and improved beam diagnostic systems for the ISIS synchrotron has been named runner-up in the NIDays paper competition.
Managing nanoparticle waste in sewage
A new discovery about nanoparticle behaviour in sewage treatment plants could improve the environmental management of nanoparticle wastes from foods, cosmetics, medicines, cleaners and personal care products.
Nanoscale properties of organic solar cell polymers
Conjugated polymers have been intensively studied since it was demonstrated that they could behave as semiconductors.
Negative thermal expansion in porous frameworks
Negative thermal expansion (NTE), or contraction upon heating, is of fundamental scientific interest and may find applications in precision engineering.
Two parts order, one part disorder: negative thermal expansion in Ni(CN)2
Materials with low-dimensional structures (e.g. 2-D or layered materials such as graphene, high-temperature superconductors) are important precisely because low dimensionality often leads to unusual and useful physical properties.
Dynamics of nanoparticles for drug delivery
Nano- and micro-particles that are composed of saccharide (sugar-like) and lipid (molecules such as fats and oils) components can be produced for potential applications as highly-biocompatible drug carriers.
Catalysts revealed
Heterogeneous catalysis (catalysis where the catalyst is in a different phase from the reactants – e.g. a solid catalyst and gaseous reactants) is a key economic driver in advanced nations.
Spinning a story: silk at the molecular level
Spiders and insects have achieved what many industries and labs yearn to accomplish: the controlled assembly in water of large proteins into high performance fibres, all at ambient temperature and pressure.
‘Magnetricity’ measured for the first time at ISIS
A magnetic charge can behave and interact just like an electric charge in some materials, according to new research conducted at ISIS and which could lead to a reassessment of current magnetism theories, as well as significant technological advances.
Soft Matter: Insights from QENS
Quasi-elastic neutron scattering plays a key role in the study of soft matter systems, ranging from polymers to complex biological systems.
Puzzled physicists solve decade-long discrepancies
A team of physicists from ISIS and Brookhaven National Laboratory have resolved a decade-long puzzle.
Case study: Made in Oxfordshire
Partnership with world-class ISIS neutron source helps Oxfordshire business develop state-of-the-art products.
Microscopic magnetic ordering at exchange-biased interfaces
There has been intense interest in the exchange-bias phenomenon in recent years due to its importance in technological applications such as read heads, sensors, and magnetic random access memory.
Nature of the bound states of molecular hydrogen in carbon nanohorns
Hydrogen has great potential as an energy source.
Controlling residual stresses in friction stir welds
Aluminium is very difficult to weld; that is why aircraft are traditionally riveted. Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a new method by which panels can be joined together by passing a rotating tool down the weld-line.
Patterning of sodium ions and the control of electrons in sodium cobaltate
NaxCoO2 is a promising candidate for thermoelectric applications to cool electronic devices and convert wasted heat into electricity
Local environment of ferric iron in a silicate glass
The presence of iron in glassy materials, either as a ubiquitous impurity or as an intentional additive, affects important properties such as melt rheology, and optical and thermodynamic properties.
Strain at a phase transition in perovskite suppressed by cation disorder
Phase transitions in perovskites and their variants, of general formula ABX3, are important for technological applications and also of great interest in the earth sciences.
Perturbation of water structure by dissolved ions
Most naturally occurring water has ions (charged atoms) dissolved in it.
Spin glass order induced by dynamic frustration
Spin glasses (SG) are systems whose magnetic moments freeze at low temperature into random orientations
Water diffusion in drug delivery microgels
Polymeric microgels consist of nanometer-sized spheres. The spaces inside the spheres can be filled with a pharmacologically-active material – a drug – suspended in water. Such microgels are biocompatible, and so they have promising applications as injec
Designing drug nanodispersions
Oil-in-water microemulsions are spontaneously formed, nanosized dispersions of oil in water stabilised by surfactant.
Interfacial structure in conjugated polymers
We have used neutron reflectivity and nuclear reaction analysis to look at the interfacial width between two different types of conjugated polymer.
Dihydrogen complex or classical dihydride?
The structure of compounds containing more than one H atom bonded to a transition metal may layon a continuum between two extremes: separatebonds between the metal (M) and each H atom with no direct H-H bonds (classical polyhydride), and a dihydrogen co
Magnetic order in copper pyrazine dinitrate
Low dimensional magnetism is a fascinating experimental testing ground for fundamental many body quantum physics.
Dynamics of lipid-saccharide nanovectors for drug delivery
Nano- and microparticles composed of saccharide and lipid systems are extensively investigated for applications as highly biocompatible drug carriers.
Charge order to remove orbital degeneracy in triangular antiferromagnet AgNiO2
The layered hexagonal magnet AgNiO2 realizes a unique example of a triangular antiferromagnet with both spin and orbital moment (Ni3+ with one eg electron) and with metallic conductivity.
Pinch points and Kasteleyn transitions in Kagome ice
Spin ice is an example of a system in which thegeometry of the lattice produces frustration, i.e. if two neighbouring spins are mutually arranged a third neighbouring spin cannot be.
Nano-structures in surfactant mixtures revealed
In many commonplace surfactant-based formulations (comprising ionic/nonionic surfactant mixtures) the addition of cosurfactants such as straight-chain alkanols and more complex alcohol structures (such as perfumes) can have an impact upon the solution.
Sorting out the structure of multiferroic BiFeO3
Multiferroics are technologically-important materials which simultaneously exhibit electric order (alignment of electric dipoles in an electric field) and magnetic order (alignment of magnetic spins in a magnetic field).
How do molecular crystals form?
How does the ordering in a crystal arise from the interactions present? Solving the structure shows what the structure is, but not how it arises.
Dopant atoms strain perovskites
A variety of interesting and potential useful materials are produced when a perovskite crystal structure is distorted by the presence of dopant atoms.
Iron pnictide superconductors: the impact of ISIS
The recent discovery of superconductivity in several iron- and arsenic-based compounds with critical temperatures as high as 55K has caused great excitement because they are the first non-copper-based high-temperature superconductors.
Double exchange from valence fluctuations in magnetite
Magnetite (Fe3O4) is one of the most ancient and technologically important magnetic materials.
Atmospheric oxidation of organic pollution in cloud droplets - a climate effect?
Atmospheric aerosol affects global climate both directly, by absorbing and scattering solar radiation, and indirectly, by influencing cloud formation and growth.
A clear view through muddy water
In recent years water quality scientists have become increasingly aware of the significance of nanoparticles (defined as <100 nm in size) in the transport of pollutants and their potential impacts on the ecology and health of streams and rivers.
Gate-keepers holding on to the water in clay
Even in a barren and hot desert, clays can contain a significant fraction of water that is normally unavailable to plants.
Asphaltene aggregation in the presence of laponite clay
Asphaltenes are known as the ‘cholesterol’ of crude oil.They precipitate, adhere to surfaces and, in the worst cases, cause costly pipe blockages
A new candidate for spin liquid physics
In most common magnetic ground states, the moments of atoms in crystals order because of interactions with their neighbours.
Superconductors take a spin
Experiments at ISIS suggest that magnetic interactions may be the cause of high-temperaturesuperconductivity.
Magnets reveal their exotic quantum side
A heavy-metal magnet shows intriguing behaviour in which unusual quantum effects come into play.
Probing the past
The study of ancient artefacts is complicated by the desire not to change or damage the objects in any way.
Will the real structure please step forward
Neutron diffraction has become a powerful technique for obtaining the accurate structure ofsmall organic molecules containing hydrogen.
The ISIS accelerator paves the way
After over twenty years of operation ISIS is still the world’s leading pulsed neutron and muon source.
The secrets of storing hydrogen
Concern over climate change and a dwindling supply of fossil fuels mean that there is increasing interest in alternative forms of energy.
Welding the unweldable
Neutron diffraction is helping aerospace engineers perfect ways of welding advanced alloys that are difficult to join.
Magnetism in thin films revealed
Data storage has improved in leaps and bounds over the last 30 years – consider the size of music storage devices, which hold hundreds of CDs and can fit in the palm of your hand.
Muons reveal the secrets of hydrogen storage in semiconductors
Zinc oxide is a transparent semiconductor material which could play a vital part in a number of new applications such as energy-efficient white lighting.
Peering into polymers
Virtually every day we benefit from products made from thin film polymers. These special layers are used for everything from time release medications to anti-reflective coatings.
Cut and paste enzymes
ISIS is helping in developments towards a new tool for molecular biology.
A better catalyst for the chemical industry
Neutron scattering uncovers the secrets of catalytic selectivity.
CO2 gets a designer makeover
How to turn carbon dioxide into a working 'green' solvent for industry.
Liquid assets
Neutron studies uncover the liquid structure of an important industrial solvent.
Stopping pollution in its tracks
When we bury our waste in landfill sites, the site often has a clay liner to prevent toxic chemicals from escaping and contaminating groundwater.
Ice cold in Titan
Neutrons explore the materials thought to makeup the mantles of the icy moons of the Solar System.
The many forms of ice
You might think that the ice on Earth would be the same as that on Iapetus, Saturn’s icy moon, but new research suggests they maybe quite different.
Frustration!
Minerals prefer to form a perfectly ordered crystal structure when they are cooled, but for some this is a hard task.
Hotter means smaller!
Most materials expand when they are heated, but a few do exactly the opposite and contract. Recent work at ISIS has helped to explain this puzzling phenomenon by studying the way that the atoms move.
Polymers for Organic Solar Cells
Conjugated polymers have been intensively studied since it was demonstrated that they could behave as semiconductors.
CHRONUS Science Highlights
Here are a few publications to illustrate the science that can be performed on the CHRONUS spectrometer
MuSR Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using MuSR here.
ISIS Second Target station - protons on target.
The ISIS Second Target Station Project at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Oxfordshire achieved a major milestone on Friday 14 December 2008, at the first attempt and two days ahead of schedule.
Case study: Scattered neutrons land close to home
A high-tech business in the local community is playing a critical role in one of the UK’s largest science projects.
High resolution scintillator beam loss system for ISIS
A new beam loss monitor system to protect ISIS magnets from activation and damage.
How interfaces affect the performance of organic optoelectronic devices
New ultra-thin flexible display technologies
Understanding magnetic nanostructures
Using poloarised neutrons to study magnetic exchange bias.
Stress distributions around active NiTi inserts in smart cutting discs
Studying stone-cutting discs with ENGIN-X
Pistols at dawn: science versus oral history
Neutron techniques reveal the history of of two pistols.
Ultra-flexible material shows colossal thermal expansion
Investigating negative thermal expansion materials
Superfluidity and Bose-Einstein Condensation in solid helium
Searching for superfluidity in solids.
The surprising magnetism of azurite
New magnetic effects discovered in paint pigment.
Isotope effects on water structure
Studying the properties of heavy water
Geometric structure of ion hydration shells
Studying ions in solution.
Novel gels from polymer mixtures
Analysing stress and strain in soft materials.
Quantum behaviour of molecular hydrogen in potassium-graphite intercalates
Experimenting with hydrogen storage media.
Polymorphism and disorder: subtle effects controlling solid state molecular form
Studying molecular materials on SXD at ISIS
John Hubbard’s challenge 45 years on
Complementarity of condensed matter and cold atom experiments
Virtually there: speeding up the analysis of reflectivity data
New computational methods to aid model fitting.
Oxidation of organic films on cloud droplets
Using neutron reflection to study the formation of clouds.
Nitric acid hydrates : constituents of ice clouds
Inelastic neutron scattering studies on solid cloud particles
Protein sensing arrays
Improving protein arrays for medical diagnostics
Water around proteins: the ultrafast motion of protons
Investigating the link between proton tunneling and biological function
Spin gap formation in heavy Fermion compounds
New insights into strongly correlated electron systems.
Spin waves in ferromagnetic metallic manganites
Mapping patterns of spin behaviour using time-of-flight neutron scattering.
New iron-based high-temperature superconductors
A new family of high-temperature superconductors discovered.
Four new polymorphs of formamide at high pressure
Research into polymorphic formamide
Effects of temperature and pressure on deuterium migration
Effects of temperature and pressure on deuterium migration in urea – phosphoric acid
Evidence of the presence of optic-like collective modes in a liquid
The dynamics within hydrogen bonded liquids are key to understanding the fundamental interactions which give rise to the cohesion energy being governed by strongly directional electrostatic forces.
Hydrogen conduction in oxide materials
Compounds which exhibit high hydrogen conduction have potential applications in devices such as fuel cells and hydrogen sensors
Superconductivity and magnetism meet
When superconductivity and magnetism meet in a material it then shows potential interest for spintronic applications.
Water at the leading edge: a new look at interfacial fluids
The structure of confined water
Waxy molecules exhibit a special shine for metal oxide nanocubes
Understanding how waxy molecules interact with and modify metal oxide materials will enhance their technological usage.
A step up the cuprate ladder?
The complete magnetic excitation spectrum of a cuprate compound, measured for the first time.
Green solvents
Investigation into super-critical carbon dioxide as a potential ‘green’ replacement for volatile organic solvents.
Negative thermal expansion in zirconium tungstate
Negative thermal expansion, a property whereby a material contracts when it is heated, is important for varied applications from ceramic cooker hobs to high precision optical components
Coupling of orbital, spin, and lattice degrees of freedom in Tl2Ru2O7
Phase transitions
New insights into INVAR systems through µSR
Investigation into the INVAR effect
Interfacial behaviour of the naturally occurring surfactant surfactin
Understanding the biological function of surfactin
Nanoreactors formed from self-assembled protein cages
Developing new biological materials
Polarised neutrons to study protein/lipid nanostructures
Studying protein/lipid nanostructures
The binding of H2 in zeolites
Understanding the microscopic mechanisms of hydrogen interactions with zeolite materials to develop their storage potential.
Hydrogen doping of colloidal quantum dots
The promising applications of semiconductor nanocrystals
Materials ageing studies for current and future nuclear reactors
Predicting the safe life of reactors and optimisation of materials for the next reactor generation.
Ancient weapons technology studied on ENGIN-X
Investigating ancient weapons
The structure of amino acids in solution
Self-organisation of proteins in solution and their aqueous environment.
New materials for hydrogen storage
Developing a suitable material for hydrogen storage
Holey hematite!
Transforming magnetism in a-Fe2O3 through mesostructure.
ISIS pumps up its proton pulses
New accelerating technology to get the best best out of ISIS.
ChipIr Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using ChipIr here.
OSIRIS Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using OSIRIS here.
HiFi Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using HiFi here.
NIMROD Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles from NIMROD here.
GEM Disordered Materials Science Highlights
Disordered Materials science highlights for the GEM instrument
Case study: Wing quality soars at ISIS
ISIS helps major aerospace companies assure the quality of engineering components.
Case study: Fundamental science helps protein business
ISIS is giving a specialist bioscience spinout the fundamental knowledge needed to make more accurate biosensors to diagnose potentially fatal diseases.
Case study: When the chips are down
ISIS is helping aerospace companies tackle the challenge of cosmic radiation and its damaging effect on microchips in aircraft.
Case study: Spinning yarns
ISIS is helping to identify how silk is spun.
Case study: Understanding infant lung structure
Scientists at the UK’s ISIS neutron source are contributing to research that could help save the lives of premature babies.
Case study: Clear as muddy water
ISIS studies river water samples to help researchers understand and improve water resources across the European Union.
Case study: ISIS shoots down pistol theory
ISIS helps archeologists understand the origins of important relics.
Case study: ISIS contributes to zero-emission vehicles
ISIS helps identify materials that can store hydrogen safely, efficiently and cost-effectively
Case study: ISIS helps unclog the cholesterol of crude oil
Experiments at ISIS are helping companies to understand why oil pipes get blocked and how best to extract oil from its source.
Case study: ISIS helps mobile phone component manufacturers
ISIS helps mobile phone component manufacturers keep up with next-generation demand.
Case study: Neutron science for next-generation computing
Neutron scientists at ISIS are helping to advance the digital economy through research into spintronics – an emerging technology which exploits the spin of electrons as well as their charge.
SURF Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using SURF here.
Case study: Bioactive glass for bone growth
ISIS helps medical researchers develop a glass that could replace bone transplants.
IMAT Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using IMAT here.
WISH Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using WISH here.
Offspec Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using OFFSPEC here.
Polaris Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using Polaris here.
Larmor Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using Larmor here.
Inter Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using Inter here.
IRIS Science Highlights
Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using IRIS here.