Probing the network in low molecular weight gels

We can prepare a range of useful soft materials by self-assembling small functionalised peptides in water. Typically micellar dispersions are prepared at high pH and gels at low pH. The properties of the gels are high process dependent. In the gel state, most of our SANS can be fitted to cylindrical models, most typically flexible cylinder and flexible ellitptical cylinders. However, we often have to include a power law to take into account the excess scattering at low Q. We assume that this scattering is due to the network that is formed leading to a relatively complex fractal structure. Here, we wish to collect data over a wide Q range for a range of gels that give different properties and attempt to start to build an understanding as to the origin of this excess scattering.