Neutrons and Polymers – Nanotechnology

Abstract

Polymers consist of long, chain-like molecules built up from a large number of smaller molecules known as monomers. Polymers can be engineered to spontaneously self-organize into domains that form ordered, crystal-like structures with lattice dimensions in the nanometer range. Small-angle neutron scattering is one of the key techniques used to study and understand these materials. Contrast variation via isotope labeling is particularly crucial for studying soft materials such as polymers, and this topic is discussed in the article. Examples are presented showing how neutron scattering can reveal nanostructures within such polymer materials. Furthermore, examples are provided demonstrating how neutron scattering can be used to determine polymer miscibility and elucidate the detailed structure of self-organizing polymer systems.