  A new phenomenon, called cooperative internal conversion process, in which
the coupling of bound-free electron and neutron transitions due to the dipole
term of their Coulomb interaction permits cooperation of two nuclei leading to
neutron exchange if it is allowed by energy conservation, is discussed
theoretically. General expression of the cross section of the process is
reported in one particle nuclear and spherical shell models as well in the case
of free atoms (e.g. noble gases). A half-life characteristic of the process is
also determined. The case of $Ne$ is investigated numerically. The process may
have significance in fields of nuclear waste disposal and nuclear energy
production.
