Inelastic neutron scattering and spectroscopy methods to characterize dynamics in colloidal and soft matter systems
Livia Salvati Manni1, Kathleen Wood2, Alice Klapproth2
1School of Chemistry, University of Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; School of Chemistry, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, NSW, Australia; Australian Synchrotron, ANSTO, 800 Blackburn Rd, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.
Abstract:
Colloidal systems and soft materials are well suited to neutron scattering, and the community has readily adopted elastic scattering techniques to investigate their structure. Due to their unique properties, neutrons may also be used to characterize the dynamics of soft materials over a wide range of length and time scales in situ. Both static structures and an understanding of how molecules move about their equilibrium positions is essential if we are to deliver on the promise of rationally designing soft materials. In this review we introduce the basics of neutron spectroscopy and explore the ways in which inelastic neutron scattering can be used to study colloidal and soft materials. Illustrative examples are chosen that highlight the phenomena suitable for investigation using this suite of techniques.
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