Functional Particles and Interfaces

The nanomaterials characterization (scattering methods) group (NCS group) studies the structure and dynamics of interface controlled functional colloidal systems. For this purpose mainly x-ray and neutron scattering techniques such as XRD, SAXS, GISAXS, GIXD, XRR, SANS, and QENS are used. Dedicated different types of diffractometers are available on site. For x-ray small angle scattering, x-ray reflectivity, and reciprocal space mapping state-of-the-art and partially unique instruments are available. The research group has significant experience in the development, construction and operation of complex instrumentation and sample environments for both laboratory based systems but also for instruments at synchrotron and neutron sources. We are highly cross linked within the FAU via a variety of cooperations, interdisciplinary centers such as the Center for Nanoanalysis and Electron Microscopy (CENEM), the Interdisciplinary Center for Functional Particle Systems (IZFPS), the Interdisciplinary Center for Interface-Controlled Processes (ICICP), and the Interdisciplinary Center for Nanostructured Films (IZNF), the Cluster of Excellence Engineering of Advanced Materials (EAM), and common research programs as e.g. the DFG research training groups 1896 and 1962 as well as the research unit funCOS (FOR 1878). In particular the DFG funded CENEM core facility for Nanocharacterisation with Electrons, X-rays, and Scanning Probes offers easy access to further cutting edge methods such as TEM, HRTEM, atom probe, mechanical testing, and scanning probe microscopy. Beyond laboratory methods, our group is extremely well networked with national and international synchrotron and neutron sources such as MLZ, DESY, ILL, ESRF, and others.