ISIS GEM Science Highlights

GEM Science Highlights

Our Science Highlight articles cover the diverse research that takes place at our facility. Read all our Science Highlight articles using GEM below:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Enhancing performance in important industrial catalysts
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Will the real structure please step forward
Neutron diffraction has become a powerful technique for obtaining the accurate structure ofsmall organic molecules containing hydrogen.
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
New materials for hydrogen storage
Developing a suitable material for hydrogen storage