SAXS/WAXS in the lab. How does it work? (C. Giacobbe)

Small-Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS) is a powerful technique for probing the nanoscale structure of materials. When combined with Wide-Angle X-ray Scattering (WAXS), it becomes even more effective, especially in the study of soft matter. This presentation will provide an in-depth overview of these techniques, focusing on their principles and the essential components of a SAXS/WAXS beamline. The role of each element in achieving high-quality data will be discussed.

Moreover, the data obtained from SAXS/WAXS experiments are easier to interpret thanks to advanced software and analysis tools. This presentation will guide the audience through the different regimes of a SAXS/WAXS profile, explaining what each reveal about the material being studied. The Guinier, intermediate, Porod and WAXS “regimes” will be covered, offering a comprehensive understanding of these scattering profiles.

Various applications of SAXS/WAXS in current research will also be explored, including:

• The use of micelles for drug delivery systems;

• The development of cryogels for art restoration;

• Enhancements in concrete materials;

• Protein structure analysis.

Attendees will clearly understand how SAXS/WAXS works, how to interpret the data, and its significant contributions to scientific advancements formulation science.