Multiscale dispersion-state characterization of nanocomposites using optical coherence tomography
Simon Schneider1, Florian Eppler1, Marco Weber1
1Institute of Photonics and Quantum Electronics (IPQ), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany.
Scientific Reports
|August 26, 2016
Summary
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) offers a versatile, sample-free method for nanomaterial characterization. This technique enables accurate nanoparticle sizing and in-line metrology for improved material development and production.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Optical Engineering
Background:
- Nanocomposite material development relies heavily on nanotechnology advancements.
- Fabrication of nanomaterials faces challenges due to inadequate analysis tools, particularly for achieving uniform particle dispersion.
- Conventional microscopy methods require laborious sample preparation and lack speed for real-time analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) as a versatile tool for nanomaterial characterization.
- To demonstrate OCT's applicability in both laboratory and industrial production settings.
- To showcase OCT's capability for in-line metrology in manufacturing processes.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for non-destructive, sample-preparation-free analysis.
- Applying model-based analysis of depth-dependent backscattering for detecting dispersed nanoparticles.
- Employing OCT imaging for direct visualization of large particle agglomerates.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated accurate nanoparticle sizing using a polystyrene nanoparticle model system.
- Successfully characterized nanoclays and carbon nanotubes, relevant industrial materials.
- Validated OCT for in-line metrology in a production environment using a compounding extruder.
Conclusions:
- OCT is a powerful, versatile tool for multiscale nanomaterial characterization.
- The technique offers significant advantages over conventional methods, including speed and minimal sample preparation.
- OCT is suitable for real-time quality control and process monitoring in industrial nanomaterial production.
