CROSS Neutron Plaza（CNP）は、企業、大学、公的機関の知を結集し、中性子を活用した材料研究を通じて、持続可能な産業技術と社会価値の創出を目指す共創プラットフォームです。

CROSS Neutron Plaza (CNP) is a collaborative platform that brings together the expertise of industry, academia, and public institutions to create sustainable industrial technologies and social value through neutron-based materials research.

CNPでは、研究テーマの検討から実験、データ解析、成果共有まで、これらの機関が連携して研究を進めます。中性子によって材料を「測る」だけでなく、得られた結果を「わかる」につなげ、材料や技術を「つくる」、さらに成果を社会へ「伝える」という一連の循環を重視しています。

At CNP, the organizations involved work together throughout the research process, from the consideration of research themes to experiments, data analysis, and the sharing of results. CNP emphasizes a continuous cycle that goes beyond simply “measuring” materials with neutrons: the results are used to “understand” materials, to “create” new materials and technologies, and ultimately to “communicate” the outcomes to society.

現在は、主に小角中性子散乱法を活用する「SANS Unit」と、中性子反射率法を活用する「NRef Unit」を設置しています。各ユニットでは、参加企業がCNP全体で共有する研究の方向性や共通テーマの検討に関わるとともに、実験や知見・成果の共有を通じて、各社固有の技術課題に取り組みます。また、企業ごとの個別研究を共通する社会的課題と結び付け、技術的成果の創出と社会への発信を両立させることを目指しています。

CNP currently operates two units: the SANS Unit, which primarily uses small-angle neutron scattering, and the NRef Unit, which primarily uses neutron reflectometry. In each unit, participating companies contribute to discussions on the research directions and common themes shared across CNP, while addressing their own specific technical challenges through experiments and the sharing of knowledge and findings. CNP also seeks to connect the individual research activities of participating companies with common societal challenges, thereby achieving both technological outcomes and effective communication with society.

CNPでは、実験計画の検討、測定、データ解析、技術情報の共有、講義・研修を通じた人材育成などの活動を継続的に進めています。こうした取り組みを通じて、中性子を企業の研究開発で活用しやすい手法として定着させ、材料開発や社会課題の解決につながる成果の創出に取り組んでいます。

CNP continuously undertakes activities such as experimental planning, measurements, data analysis, the sharing of technical information, and human resource development through lectures and training. Through these efforts, CNP works to establish neutron-based methods as accessible and practical tools for corporate research and development, and to generate outcomes that contribute to materials development and the solution of societal challenges.