Characterizing dispersion and fragmentation of fractal, pyrogenic silica nanoagglomerates by small-angle X-ray...

Typical characterization of nanoparticle dispersion and compounding processes by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and TEM lack quantitative information on fractal structure, aggregation number, and specific surface area. In this work a synchrotron ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering (USAXS) investigation on diffusion flame and 'Aerosil' silica powders, as well as on their desagglomeration by high-pressure liquid dispersion (200-1400 bar) is presented. Primary particle size, polydispersity, and specific surface area are measured for powders, stirred-in dispersions, and after high-pressure processing with identical results, showing the in-situ applicability of USAXS. These parameters, as well as the hard aggregate mass fractal dimension, with typically Df = 2.15 representing reaction-limited cluster aggregation, are determined by synthesis process conditions. They are unchanged even at the highest hydrodynamic stresses; thus, neither comminution nor agglomerate restructuring nor re-agglomeration occurs. Fragmentation reflects in decreasing radii of gyration, which are compared to mobility equivalent radii from DLS in agreement with theory.