X-Ray Scattering of Soft Matter

N. Stribeck, "X-Ray Scattering of Soft Matter"
ISBN 978-3-540-69855, 260 p. (total)
published April 24, 2007 – Contents and sample pages (PDF, 450 KB)
Springer (2007) – Flyer and mail order form

Applications of X-ray scattering to soft matter have advanced considerably within recent years both conceptually and technically – mature high-power X-ray sources, synchrotrons and rotating anodes, as well as high-speed detectors have become readily available. High-quality time-resolved experiments of polymer structure now can be performed with ease, a major advancement due to the genuine power of the scattering method.

This manual summarizes the analytical power of modern X-ray scattering in the field of soft matter. Description of simple tools alowing to elucidate the mechanisms of structure evolution in the studied materials is followed by a step-for-step guide and breakdown of the more advanced methods. Data analysis based on clear, unequivocal results is made easy and straightforward – certainly only in case the experiments are thoroughly planned and all required data adequately recorded. Towards these means, this book will serve as a useful ready-reference guide.

Comments and Suggestions Appreciated

A textbook will never be perfect. I myself plan to continue to work on the manuscript, whenever I find that something is missing, is explained in a misleading way, or is erroneous. I highly appreciate your input!

Where I expect possible errors

Late during manuscript preparation I have changed the nomenclature of polar angles. So there may be some inconsistencies, which I may not have found.
Some pages on the first-zero method of correlation function analysis have been added late. Thus, the corresponding text can most probably be improved (these pages are freely available in the collection of sample pages (PDF, 450 KB)).

What I have forgotten

For a two-phase topology I have not mentioned the relation between the average chord length, l_p, and the specific inner surface, S/V:
(S/V) l_p = 4 v(1 - v),
with v being the volume fraction of one of the two phases, V the volume of the sample that is irradiated by the X-ray beam, and S the total inner surface inside V.
Some symbols are not in the list of symbols (e.g. d_z, <\sigma>_z)

Updated April 26, 2007 by <Norbert@Stribeck.de>