High-Throughput, High-Pressure, Small-Angle Neutron Scattering Sample Environment

The product to be delivered based on this innovation is a neutron scattering sample environment that enables efficient neutron scattering measurements of biopolymer solutions at high pressure. The proposed high-throughput, high-pressure small-angle neutron scattering (HTHP-SANS) sample environment addresses key customer needs and provides substantial advantages to both the scientific user and the beamline support staff. The HTHP-SANS cell is designed for rapid thermal and pressure equilibration to maximize beamtime measurement efficiency while also enabling in-situ scattering measurements. The fixed-window design facilitates easy sample changes and cell cleaning, while eliminating the potential for certain experimental errors due to leakage often present in removable window cells, particularly at low temperatures. Design goals include P-T ranges: 0.1 Pa to 220 MPa, attainable within 10 minutes, -22°C to+ 90°C, sample volume 600 µL-1.5 ml, compatibility with standard sample changers, and interfacing with standard software. The product will increase scientific productivity and deliver unique experimental capabilities to develop the structure-processing-property relationships critical for development of advanced materials and products in industries including biopharmaceuticals, vaccine development, clean energy, cold chain management, wastewater remediation, and nanotechnology.