Multidisciplinary NPs characterization

The course starts with a general introduction, colloidal stability concepts, and laboratory-based characterization techniques. Then, two sections explore wide and small angle scattering (WAXS, SAXS, SANS) and the information about structure, size, and shape that can be collected in dry NPs and colloids with the support of synchrotron light. Finally, the information accessible via electron microscopy are introduced, such as single particle electron diffraction, tomography, spectroscopy. Each topic consists of about four hours of lecture and four hours of practical work. Written test will be done in the evening of the last day.

 

Major contents:

 

1. Introduction and laboratory methods for NPs characterization, 10h (Dr. Andrea Testino, MER)

a. Introduction to materials characterization
b. Introduction to NPs synthesis
c. Introduction to colloidal stability 
d. PSD via DLS: theory and practice

 

2. X-ray diffraction/scattering (WAXS,SAXS) methods theory and practice, 8h (Dr. Nicola Casati, Group Leader, Beamline Manager)

a. Introduction to X-ray diffraction / scattering
b. Introduction to X-ray using Synchrotron light
c. NPs characterization via WAXS
d. Pattern refinement techniques

 

3. X-ray  and neutron scattering (SANS) colloidal systems in liquids theory and practice, 8h  (Dr. Viviane Lütz Bueno, Instrumental Scientist)

a. Introduction to neutron diffraction / scattering
b. Introduction to small angle diffraction
c. NPs characterization via SAND and SAXD
d. Data analysis

 

4. NPs characterization via electron microscopy (SEM, TEM, ED, EDX, tomography) 8h (Dr. Elisabeth Mueller, Group Leader,Electron Microscopy Manger)

a. Introduction to Electron Microscopy
b. Introduction to single particle analysis
c. Chemical composition and electron diffraction
d. Single particle tomography