WAXS analysis

What is WAXS used for?

WAXS has multiple applications in fields including polymer research, biological analysis, and nanomaterial characterization. Some of these include:

• Determining the degree of crystallinity in man-made and naturally occurring polymer samples

• Structural analysis of proteins and other biomacromolecules

• Analyzing the phase composition of thin films

• Monitoring the formation and analyzing the structural characteristics of nanoparticles and colloids

• Phase analysis of composite materials where phase boundaries correspond to changes in crystallinity

• Research and development of pharmaceuticals and consumer goods

How does WAXS work?

In WAXS, the sample is initially irradiated with an X-ray beam, which interacts with the electrons within the sample, upon which the X-rays are scattered to varying degrees. These scattered X-rays and their intensities are then detected at wide angles relative to the incident beam to produce a diffraction pattern, which shows precisely where the atoms are located within the sample and how crystalline (i.e. how well ‘ordered’) that region of the sample is.

Sample requirements and preparation

WAXS analysis is suitable for a wide range of sample materials including solids, powders, gels, pastes, and liquids. Depending on the sample type, materials can be mounted onto a flat-plate sample holder or loaded into a suitable capillary for measurement.

Advantages and limitations of WAXS

WAXS is a non-destructive method that can provide very specific information regarding sub-nanoscopic structures, which makes it extremely valuable for determining structural information on this scale from a wide range of materials. However, it is less suitable for structural analysis on larger scales, in which case small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) is more appropriate.

Likewise, techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy provide detailed insights into the chemical structure of a sample, while WAXS reveals information about the inter-atomic spatial arrangement of molecules. SAXS, WAXS, and NMR are often used together to obtain a comprehensive understanding of a material's structure.

Are you looking for WAXS analyses?

Measurlabs offers laboratory testing with WAXS for polymers, thin films, biological samples, and nanomaterials. From tens to hundreds of samples, we ensure your analyses are handled on time and with the highest quality.

We also provide simultaneous access to dozens of additional analysis techniques, including other synchrotron-based methods, such as SAXS, XANES, and synchrotron CT. Request a quote or ask for more information via the form below, and one of our experts will get back to you within one business day.