Abstract: The unique properties of neutrons can be used to reveal the structural and dynamic properties of matter at the micro, mesoscopic and macro-scale. Neutron scattering is widely applied in the fields of physics, chemistry, materials, geology, biology and medicine, which belongs to one kind of national large scale scientific facility. China Institute of Atomic Energy (CIAE) is the first institute to do neutron scattering research in China. Neutron scattering facilities were built based on firstly the Heavy Water Research Reactor (HWRR) and then the China Advanced Research Reactor (CARR), which kept opening to users from other institutes. Many researches were carried out based on these facilities. In this sense, CIAE makes important contributions to the creation, development and application of neutron scattering in China. At present, neutron technique is ushering in new development opportunities. The related application researches become more and more extensive and in-depth. It will continue to provide important technical support for exploring the frontiers of basic science and solving problems in the fields of energy, health, environment and information.