Small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS)

This chapter provides an introduction to small angle x-ray scattering for the characterization of nanoparticles. The basic principles and the instrumentation are described before the determination of the most relevant parameters is discussed. These parameters are the size, especially the mean particle diameter for spherical particles, the size distribution width, and the number concentration of nanoparticles in liquid suspensions. Standardization in the field is touched upon, and examples for achievable uncertainties are provided. Finally, dedicated investigations of core–shell nanoparticles are presented.