Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

A Sample Preparation Pipeline for Microcrystals at the VMXm Beamline
Published on: June 17, 2021
Bridging scales: from classical colloidal crystals to mesocrystals with modern x-ray synchrotron methods
Janne-Mieke Meijer1, Elena V Sturm2, Andrei V Petukhov3
1Department of Applied Physics and Science Education and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 19, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands.
This review covers colloidal crystals and mesocrystals, detailing fabrication methods and defect analysis using X-ray scattering techniques. Advanced imaging methods and future synchrotron sources offer new insights into these ordered materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Colloidal crystals and mesocrystals are ordered assemblies of particles.
- Understanding their structure and defects is crucial for applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in fabricating colloidal crystals and mesocrystals.
- To explore advanced X-ray scattering and imaging techniques for their characterization.
- To discuss the future impact of synchrotron sources.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication methods for colloidal crystals and mesocrystals.
- Small-angle and ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS/USAXS).
- Angular X-ray cross-correlation analysis (AXCCA).
- Coherent X-ray diffraction imaging (CXDI) and ptychography.
Main Results:
- Recent advances in fabrication techniques are highlighted.
- SAXS/USAXS effectively characterize particle assemblies and defects.
- AXCCA provides insights into colloidal and mesocrystalline materials.
- CXDI and ptychography emerge as powerful structural characterization tools.
Conclusions:
- Advanced X-ray techniques offer detailed structural analysis of colloidal crystals and mesocrystals.
- Future 4th generation synchrotron sources will significantly enhance studies of these materials.
Related Concept Videos
Determination of Crystal Structures
X-ray Crystallography
Diffraction
Diffraction is the change in the direction of travel experienced by an electromagnetic wave when it encounters a physical barrier whose dimensions are comparable to those of the wavelength of the light. X-rays are electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths about as long as the distance between neighboring...
X-ray Diffraction of Biological Samples
According to Bragg's law, when X-rays strike the sample positioned on a stage, the rays are scattered by the electron clouds around the sample atoms. The X-ray diffraction or scattering is caused by constructive interference of the X-ray waves that reflect off the internal crystal...

