In situ x-ray scattering and rheology characterization for polymer materials development
Custom sample environments combining SAXS/WAXS X-ray scattering with rheology for real-time characterization of polymer and nanocomposite materials under processing conditions. Enables rapid screening of monolayer barrier packaging candidates and identification of optimal extrusion blow molding conditions, accelerating materials discovery and development.
Overview
This offering provides advanced in situ characterization capabilities for polymer-based materials, combining X-ray scattering techniques (Small- and Wide-Angle X-ray Scattering, or SAXS/WAXS) with microrheology to study the process-structure-function relationship of polymers, nanomaterials, and composites. By performing these measurements simultaneously and under realistic processing conditions, the technology enables efficient and fast screening of new materials relevant to monolayer barrier packaging solutions while swiftly identifying ideal extrusion blow molding conditions.
Technical specifications
Key capabilities:
- Custom-designed X-ray-compatible microreactors that achieve high shear and extrusion rates with controlled temperatures
- Simultaneous in situ SAXS/WAXS and microrheological characterization during flow and processing
- Customized flow cells fabricated via 3D micro/nanofabrication to characterize polymer materials across varied temperature, shear, and extensional ranges
- Quantification of shear and extensional flow fields using high-speed video microscopy and particle imaging velocimetry
- Optional integration of a rheometer for in situ rheo-SAXS/WAXS measurements
Structural information provided by SAXS/WAXS includes:
- Material porosity and morphology
- Spatially resolved structural variations caused by processing
- Degree of crystallinity
- Domain sizes and orientation or alignment of domains and additives
- Thickness and morphology of polymer and composite films
- Size, shape, and distribution of fillers
Technology readiness level
The laboratory operates an in-house scanning SAXS/WAXS instrument (Xenocs Xeuss 3 with microfocus) and a 3D micro/nanofabrication instrument, both already in use. A dedicated sample environment is being set up to test material candidates for barrier performance and mechanical stability. The approach builds on established X-ray scattering and rheology methods, with the innovation centered on customized sample environments that enable simultaneous characterization under processing-relevant conditions. Future validation plans include expanding testing ranges and integrating rheometry capabilities for comprehensive rheo-SAXS/WAXS analysis.
About University at Buffalo, State University of New York
University at Buffalo is a comprehensive public research university and a leading campus in the State University of New York system. Industry engagement is anchored by co-located labs on a downtown medical campus, a research and technology park with incubators, shared core facilities, and co-op talent pipelines. Partnerships with regional hospitals enable clinical studies and translation, while proximity to the U.S.–Canada border and the binational Great Lakes corridor facilitates cross‑border collaboration. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from NIH, NSF, DOE, and DoD, alongside New York State innovation programs. A dedicated technology transfer office provides IP management, licensing, and startup support.
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