[en] The authors present the features of neutron diffraction in terms of necessary neutron sources, diffusion contrast, penetration and magnetism. In situ diffraction experiments consist in recording the diffraction signal of a sample when this sample undergoes a monitored change in one of the following parameters: temperature (thermo-diffraction), pressure, magnetic or electric field or gaseous atmosphere. Most in situ diffraction experiments are performed on powders and they required a more or less complex equipment according to the parameter that varies. Examples and results of in situ neutron diffraction experiments are detailed in the article: -) the electrochemical loading of electrodes, -) the absorption of hydrogen for energy storage, -) the study of materials under high pressure which has allowed the investigation of phase diagrams when the inter-atomic distance varies, and -) the study of magnetism through thermo-diffraction. (A.C.)