For the development of new materials not only the chemical composition is decisive for the technical properties, moreover the distinct phases of the material have to be analyzed, if present. The quantitative phase analysis by means of neutron scattering yields information on sample volumes relevant to real application conditions. In contrast to x-ray or synchrotron radiation volumes in the order of several cm³ can be investigated. In addition, the high penetration depth of neutrons facilitates the use of sophisticated sample environments like cryostats furnaces, pressure cells or pulling machines.

The investigations using neutron beams enables the analysis of morphology, i. e. to determine the shape and size of particles (in the range of 1 nm to 400 nm). Furthermore the distribution of particle sizes can be determined if they, for example, are embedded in a matrix. These measurement categories yield important parameters for the improvement or new development of materials.

The instruments used determine atomic distances of the sample to be investigated by means of a diffraction experiment. The detailed analysis of the diffraction patterns yields information about the atomic structure and quantitative fraction of the phases present.

In catalysis research the areas heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis are distinguished.

In the case of heterogeneous catalysis the catalytic converter and the reactant obey different phases as for example in gas reactions or reactions in solutions accelerated by solid catalysts. This group covers metals (platinum, rhodium, palladium and iron), solid metal oxides (e.g. V₂O₅) metal salts, zeolites as well as enzymes bound to compartments.

In the case of homogenous catalysis the catalyst and the reactant are in the same phase like the educts of the catalytic reaction. In this case one has the advantage that each molecule is catalytic active and not only the surface like in the heterogeneous catalysis. The homogeneous catalysts comprises acids, bases, metal salt solutions as well as complex enzymes.

By means of neutron scattering the electron density distributions can be determined precisely, which are decisive for the catalytic effect. On the other hand in-situ measurements on the interactions between catalyst and reactant can be performed by means of structure and phase analysis of the catalyst.