Research
The HBS drives advancements in energy technology, medicine, information technology, environmental sciences, engineering, quantum technology, chemistry and fundamental physics.
Research areas

A climate-neutral energy system requires efficient energy storage and energy conversion devices. These devices only work because of the movement of lighter elements such as hydrogen, lithium or sodium. Neutron beams make these elements particularly visible and easy to see in the presence of heavier elements. Scientists use neutrons, for example, to study water exchange and proton movement in fuel cells or the migration of lithium in Li-ion batteries. Since neutrons penetrate deep into matter, researchers can carry out their investigations while the devices are in operation, for example during the charging and discharging of batteries. This makes it possible to select the best materials, improve the geometry and identify the causes of performance losses and malfunctions. Several HBS instruments are suitable for this type of in-operando investigations.