Neonin

Neonin is a fictional chemical compound commonly used in science fiction and educational world-building to illustrate advanced energy materials and propulsion technologies. The term appears in various universes as a versatile, high-energy reagent capable of releasing large amounts of energy when triggered by a specific catalyst or resonance. The name blends the neon-like connotation of light and volatility with the -in suffix used for chemical species.

In fictional depictions, Neonin is described as a colorless, odorless substance at ambient conditions that can exist as a gas or densely stored liquid or solid under confinement. It is typically portrayed as having a high energy density and fast reaction kinetics, making it attractive for power generation and propulsion in speculative technologies. Storage and handling are depicted as requiring specialized containment and monitoring due to rapid energy release under certain triggers or environmental conditions.

Applications within speculative settings often include propulsion systems such as ion drives or plasma thrusters, where Neonin serves as a potent energy carrier. It is also featured in advanced battery concepts and materials synthesis workflows, where controlled release of energy enables rapid charging or programmable reactions. In-universe chemistry characterizations vary by author, but common themes include sensitivity to moisture and light, stability only within engineered containment, and byproducts that are described as benign or manageable in controlled environments.

Production and availability are typically described as highly dependent on futuristic infrastructure, such as advanced reactors or planetary resources, with strict regulatory or gatekeeping measures in stories to reflect its potential hazards and strategic value.

See also: Neon, fictional elements, energy storage in fiction.