The modular SAXS data correction sequence for solids and dispersions

TL;DR

This paper presents a comprehensive, modular sequence of data correction steps for small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) that improves accuracy and can be universally applied to various instruments, reducing the need for repeated corrections.

Contribution

It introduces a standardized, modular correction sequence for SAXS data that enhances accuracy and is adaptable to different instrument setups.

Findings

Improved data accuracy for solids and dispersions.

Universal applicability to pinhole-collimated instruments.

Reduces need for repeated data correction.

Abstract

Data correction is probably the least favourite activity amongst users experimenting with small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS): if it is not done sufficiently well, this may become evident during the data analysis stage, necessitating the repetition of the data corrections from scratch. A recommended, comprehensive sequence of elementary data correction steps is presented here to alleviate the difficulties associated with data correction. When applied in the proposed order, the resulting data will provide a high degree of accuracy for both solid samples and dispersions. The solution here can be applied without modification to any pinhole-collimated instruments with photon-counting, direct detection area detectors.