ICONE
    About Neutrons

    There can be no scientific and technological progress without progress in the understanding and control of materials.

    Like photons and as a complementary probe, neutrons are an ideal tool for exploring the composition, structure, dynamics, and magnetic properties of materials.

    The neutron is an elementary particle discovered in 1932 by James Chadwick (Nobel Prize in Physics in 1935). It has been used since 1946 as a probe for investigating matter, thanks to the pioneering work of Clifford Shull, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1994 together with Bertram Brockhouse.

    Historical milestones

    1932
    Discovery of the neutron by James Chadwick.
    1935
    Nobel Prize in Physics awarded to James Chadwick.
    1946
    First applications of neutron scattering.
    1994
    Nobel Prize in Physics awarded to Clifford Shull and Bertram Brockhouse.

    The ICONE Project

    The ICONE facility will provide researchers and engineers with a modern neutron source, equipped with high-performance instruments dedicated to fundamental research, industrial innovation, and training.

    Health
    Biology
    Engineering
    Electronics
    Energy
    Environment
    Magnetism
    ICONE aims to provide France with a new-generation national neutron science facility.

    General Information

    This website presents the ICONE project, whose objective is to provide France with its future national neutron science facility by the mid-2030s.

    It is intended for the general public as well as researchers, students, industrial partners, and future users of the facility.