Chemical applications of synchrotron light

Synchrotron light has a wide range of applications in chemical research. Solid state chemistry is beginning to be explored under extreme conditions, revealing new polymeric and framework forms of various compounds. Extreme conditions experiments have great potential for new solid state chemistry to predict new materials and their properties.

The potential of microfocus x-ray spectroscopy is largely unexplored in chemistry. Sub-micron beams can give fundamental insights into a wide range of important chemical reactions and ultra-dilute systems, enhancing the study of reactions at solid interfaces and solid/liquid interfaces, and lead to the development of improved materials through studies of ceramic and composite materials.

X-ray rheology experiments can improve the understanding of food gels for example, and lead to the manufacture of better-designed polymers and more efficient production technology.

Simultaneous small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) and mechanical testing allow the study of the microstructural changes that occur on deformation of polymers. By studying the behaviour of the material at different stages of degradation we are able to map the relationships between microstructure, degradation and ultimate mechanical response. This enables rational design of microstructure for desired properties.

To discuss possible chemistry experiments at Diamond, please contact the relevant beamline scientist or  Andy Dent.

Chemistry Highlights

• High pressure orthovanadates
  17 Nov 2009
  Orthovanadates have recently emerged as promising optical materials for birefringent solid-state laser applications. They can be also used in a number of applications including cathodoluminescent materials, Read more...
• Porous Organic Cages
  17 Nov 2009
  Porous materials are important in a wide range of applications including catalysis and storage of gases such as carbon dioxide, a major contributor to climate change. Finding new ways to synthesise these Read more...
• Rotaxanes – Molecular Machines
  02 Nov 2009
  Rotaxanes are tiny molecular structures where a central straight molecule passes through a macrocycle, making a molecular machine in the shape of an axle inside a wheel. Bulky stoppers at either end of Read more...
• Furthering Alzheimer’s disease studies
  16 Sep 2009
  The self-assembly of peptides into fibrils is commonly observed. Such fibrils may have biological roles and may also be useful in nanotechnology applications, as scaffolds to create metal nanowires or Read more...
• A joint approach to helping drug delivery
  10 Dec 2008
  Scientists have been using both Diamond Light Source and the ISIS neutron source to get a better understanding of an important group of materials that can help target the delivery of drugs to the right Read more...