Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) is a powerful and non-destructive method for analyzing nano-structured materials. The technique yields information such as particle sizes and size distributions from 1 to 100 nm, including shape and orientation distributions in liquids, powders and bulk samples. Applications range from proteins and other biomolecules to polymers, emulsions, liquid crystals, fibres and catalysts.

Our pinhole SAXS camera from Rigaku Innovative Technologies is equipped with a microfocus x-ray source. A 3-meter, fully evacuated camera provides both high intensity and high resolution. Coupled with a fully integrated 2-dimensional multi-wire proportional counter, the system is capable of making highly sensitive measurements from both isotropic and anisotropic materials. Different sample stages provide maximum flexibility in controlling environmental sample conditions during measurement.

Features of the pinhole SAXS camera:

• Three pinhole collimation

• Two sample chambers with different sample-detector distances for small and mid-range q-vectors

• Simultaneous wide angle X-ray scattering using imaging plates

• Automated sample changer

• Complete vacuum environment

• Sample environments range from vacuum, to quartz capillaries and flat cells, to atmospheric pressure

• Sample temperature control

• Different sets of pinholes and beam-stops for optimizing flux and resolution

• Photodiode beam-stop for sample absorption correction

• Custom scripting language for automated data collection