ACNS, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232, Australia.

E-mail: jitendra.mata@ansto.gov.au

SANS instruments at ACNS

S mall angle X-ray and neutron scattering (SAXS, SANS) are versatile techniques for investigating the nanoscale structure of soft materials such as food, surfactants, polymers, colloids, minerals processing fluids, and emulsions. These techniques have been exceptionally useful for studying complex materials of industrial importance in recent years. The use of small angle scattering (SAS) in combination with traditional techniques offers a unique insight into the structure, size, shape and morphology of the materials. Different processes like aggregation, structural transitions, crystallization and phase separation can be studied using SAS techniques in various conditions. SAS are well-established characterisation techniques for the nano and microstructure (from 1 nm to >1000 nm) investigations in various materials. These techniques are mostly nondestructive, and particularly useful to study systems in complex sample environment, in-situ, and at different kinetic stages. The use of deuterated molecules and partial deuteration has enhanced the applicability of these methods for soft materials (particularly for SANS technique). We discuss the advantages and limitations of these techniques, and provide examples of recent applications in mineral processing, food technology and colloid science in this talk.

Australia is the home of state of the art reactor based SANS instrument known as Quokka (at the ACNS, ANSTO). Combining Quokka with onsite lab based SAXS instrument or with the Australian Synchrotron based SAXS-WAXS instrument provide versatile techniques to study complex soft matter systems. ANSTO is known for its high class neutron scattering based science, outstanding deuteration facility, and exceptional sample environment options to couple with various neutron scattering techniques. A general overview of the institute and techniques available will also be provided.