Universal scattering behavior of co-assembled nanoparticle-polymer clusters

TL;DR

This study reveals a universal scattering behavior in water-soluble nanoparticle-polymer clusters, characterized by a correlation hole, and provides a detailed structural analysis using small-angle neutron scattering and Monte Carlo simulations.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of universal scattering behavior in nanoparticle clusters and offers a comprehensive structural characterization method.

Findings

Universal correlation hole observed at intermediate wave-vectors

Accurate modeling of cluster structure via Monte Carlo simulations

Influence of nanoparticle adlayer properties on microstructure

Abstract

Water-soluble clusters made from 7 nm inorganic nanoparticles have been investigated by small-angle neutron scattering. The internal structure factor of the clusters was derived and exhibited a universal behavior as evidenced by a correlation hole at intermediate wave-vectors. Reverse Monte-Carlo calculations were performed to adjust the data and provided an accurate description of the clusters in terms of interparticle distance and volume fraction. Additional parameters influencing the microstructure were also investigated, including the nature and thickness of the nanoparticle adlayer.