# Extending SAXS instrument ranges through addition of a portable, inexpensive USAXS module

## TL;DR

This paper presents a compact, cost-effective Ultra-SAXS module that extends the q-range of existing SAXS instruments, enabling detailed structural analysis across a broader size spectrum with easy integration and rapid measurement switching.

## Contribution

A novel, portable Ultra-SAXS module design that enhances existing SAXS/WAXS instruments by expanding their measurable q-range and allowing quick measurement interleaving.

## Key findings

- Extended q-range from 0.0015 to 0.2 nm^{-1}
- Successful measurements on silica spheres, alumina membrane, and porous carbon catalyst
- Demonstrated rapid switching between SAXS and USAXS modes

## Abstract

Ultra-SAXS can enhance the capabilities of existing SAXS/WAXS beamlines and laboratory instruments. A compact Ultra-SAXS module has been developed, which extends the measurable $q$-range with $0.0015 \leq q\mathrm{(nm^{-1})} \leq 0.2$, allowing structural dimensions between $30 \leq D$(nm)$ \leq 4000$ to be probed in addition to the range covered by a high-end SAXS/WAXS instrument. By shifting the module components in and out on their respective motor stages, SAXS/WAXS measurements can be easily and rapidly interleaved with USAXS measurements. In this paper, the design considerations, realization and synchrotron findings are presented. Measurements of silica spheres, an alumina membrane, and a porous carbon catalyst are provided as application examples.