SAXS analysis is a non-destructive characterization method which offers insights into size, shape, distribution, and internal arrangements of nanostructures. This information is crucial for materials science, polymer research, biophysics, pharmacy and nanotechnology development.
The Nanostar SAXS system by Bruker AXS (Karlsruhe, Germany) is a versatile device designed for analyzing nanostructures and molecular structures ranging from 1 to 125 nm.
The system is equipped with:
- an IµS microfocus X-ray source (Incoatec GmbH, Geesthacht, Germany), operating at 30 W without water cooling and providing an intense Cu-Kα radiation X-ray beam with a wavelength of 1.54 Å and a flux of up to 1.7 cps/mm² at the sample)
- a MONTEL optics in which a pair of parabolically shaped Göbel mirrors turn the divergent X-ray radiation into a high-brilliant parallel beam
- an adjustable collimation system where either a SCATEX 2-pinhole system or a standard 3-pinhole system can be used for fine beam collimation resulting in a high resolution
- a VÅNTEC-2000 detector with MIKROGAP technology and a pixel pitch of 68 µm for high spatial resolution, dynamic range, and real-time data collection. Alternatively, an Image Plate detector for simultaneous SAXS/WAXS measurements in an angle range beween 2 and 80° can be used.
The large, modular sample chamber supports the installation of different sample stages which enable the setting of diverse sample conditions, including grazing incidence (GISAXS), variable temperatures (-30°C to 300°C), and custom setups. A motorized XY stage positions the sample in a range of 80×130 mm² and can also be used for automated multi-sample measurements in advanced studies.
An adjustable sample-to-detector distance (11.5 mm to 1070 mm) provides flexibility in the experimental setup and enables to span SAXS and WAXS regimes.
Applications include analyzing nanostructured materials, fibers (orientation and structure analysis of polymer and natural fibers), solar cell nanoparticles (3D nanoparticle arrangement at surfaces) and liquid crystals in terms of their anisotropic structural properties under varying fields.