Neutrons are the only method by which scientists can see through a running engine. By studying how fuels and lubrication oils are distributed in the cylinders of the engine researchers can improve gas and fuel flows as well as performance. The possibility of precise measurements can lead to less fuel hungry and more efficient engines. With the neutron sources of tomorrow, the potential for improvements is even larger.

At the ESS “sister facility” ORNL in the USA, research is being conducted to extract ethanol from cellulose rich materials like grass and agricultural waste. Today ethanol for environmentally friendly vehicles is extracted mainly from cereals like corn, which cause competition for production intended as food.

The constructions of tomorrow will build upon knowledge of the properties of materials on the atomic level. ESS will lead to better, safer and more efficient cars and aircrafts.