Characterisation of Nano- and Microstructures across Multiple Length Scales
The Faculty Centre for Nano Structure Research covers a wide range of modern characterisation methods that complementarily cover different length scales, from atomic to microscopic dimensions. The choice of method depends on the relevant structural size, the method's surface sensitivity and the specific research question.
In the atomic to molecular range (0.01–1 nm), X-ray diffraction (XRD/WAXS) is used as a scattering-based technique. This provides precise information on crystal structures, lattice parameters and phases – typically for metallic alloys, crystalline polymers or liquids. For larger structures in the nanometre range (1 – 100 nm), small angle scattering (SAXS) is central. It enables the investigation of nanoparticles, pore structures or supramolecular assemblies. In addition, dynamic light scattering (DLS/DDLS) and static light scattering (SLS) provide information on particle size distributions and collective properties in solutions in the range <10 nm – 1 μm, as is relevant, for example, in soft matter involving colloids or macromolecules,
In the transition to mesoscopic and microscopic scales (≈ 1 nm – 10 μm), real-space imaging techniques provide both topographical and chemical insights. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) in combination with spatially resolved Raman spectroscopy can provide valuable information, particularly for thin films, interfaces or nanocomposites. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is particularly suitable for high-resolution surface analyses, for example of nanoparticles, porous materials or semiconductor microstructures.
For larger structures down to the millimetre range (1 μm – 1 mm), optical microscopy is available for rapid, large-area investigations, such as in self-organised systems, as well as for metallographic analyses.
The combination of these methods provides a comprehensive picture across several orders of magnitude – from atomic to macroscopic structures. This enables us to gain a fundamental understanding of structure–property relationships in materials physics and chemistry, particularly in the fields of nanomaterials, functional surfaces and soft condensed matter.