Small-Angle Scattering

Small-angle scattering is a technique in which collimated radiation is slightly deflected after interacting with structures larger than its wavelength. This method provides detailed information on the size, shape, and orientation of structures within a sample and is commonly used in materials science and biology.

Neutron and Synchrotron Small-Angle Scattering – Two Complementary Methods for Structural Insights

The materials used in industrial products often undergo complex processes before reaching their final form and shape. Each of these processes affects the structure and, consequently, the properties of the final product. Small-angle scattering is a valuable method for identifying phases and their morphology.

Small-angle scattering can be used for morphological characterization, such as analyzing the size, shape, and orientation distribution of various types of materials.

Shape distribution analysis

Added Value and Benefits

  • Enables analysis of materials and biological systems at the micro- and nanoscale.
  • Applicable to a wide range of materials, including polymers, colloids, and biological samples.
  • Samples remain undamaged, allowing for repeat testing.
  • Suitable for rapid analysis and capable of delivering real-time data.

Questions and Answers (FAQ)

  1. What is the difference between synchrotron and neutron small-angle scattering?
    Synchrotron techniques offer high transmission for light elements and strong contrast for heavier elements. Neutron techniques, on the other hand, provide strong contrast for light elements and higher transmission for heavier elements. This means the methods offer different, yet complementary, contrast mechanisms. More information
     
  2. What types of samples can be analyzed with small-angle scattering?
    Small-angle scattering can be applied to a broad range of materials, from soft matter like polymers to biological samples such as proteins.
     
  3. What kind of information does small-angle scattering provide about a sample?
    It provides data on the size, shape, and orientation of particles or structures contained in the sample.
     
  4. Is small-angle scattering limited to certain types of materials?
    No, it is highly versatile and can be used to analyze both inorganic and organic as well as biological materials.
     
  5. Can small-angle scattering be performed in real time?
    Yes, both neutron- and synchrotron-based small-angle scattering techniques can enable real-time analysis.
     

Contact

Interested in gaining deeper insights into your materials? Contact ANAXAM for a no-obligation consultation. Learn how our small-angle scattering analytics can help you achieve your research and development goals.
 

Further key terms

Neutron scattering, X-ray scattering, life sciences, particle analysis, microstructure, nanostructure, phase transitions

 

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