Development of a Sample Environment for in-situ Dynamic Light Scattering in Combination with Small Angle Neutron Scattering for the Investigation of Soft Matter at the European Spallation Source ESS

Currently, the European Spallation Source ESS, which will be one of the most modern and high-performance scientific neutron sources worldwide, is constructed near Lund in Sweden. The aim of our composite project “FlexiProb” is to maximize the potential of the new neutron source and to develop three modular sample environments for small angle neutron scattering (SANS) (a) combined with in-situ dynamic light scattering (DLS), (b) under gracing incidence (GISANS) and (c) on free-standing liquid films and foams. All sample environments are constructed on an universal carrier system to ensure a high repeatability, a maximum flexibility as well as a minimum switching time between different sample environments. The in-situ DLS/SANS module developed in our subproject will provide additional control parameters e.g. the sample stability during the SANS measurements. Thus, we will also develop a sample holder for about 60 samples which allows the simultaneous measurement of SANS and DLS at two different scattering angles and which provides a precise temperature control.