small-angle neutron scattering (SANS)

Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) is a technique used to study the structure of materials at a microscopic scale. It involves directing a beam of neutrons—neutral particles from atomic nuclei—at a sample. As neutrons pass through, they scatter off the internal features of the material. By measuring how the neutrons change direction at small angles, scientists can infer the size, shape, and arrangement of nanoscale structures within the sample. SANS is particularly useful for analyzing complex materials like polymers, biological tissues, and nanocomposites, providing insights into their internal architecture without destroying the sample.