SAXS enabled advanced flow reactors allowing high resolution characterisation of polymerisation induced self assembly

We wish to use SAXS to follow the formation of block copolymer nanoparticles using a bespoke continuous-flow reactor equipped with a SAXS compatible flow-cell. By tuning residence times, we will analyse specific timepoints for a prolonged duration, unlike traditional in-situ studies where one instantaneous measurement provides data. Furthermore, we intend to optimise the flow cell so observed timepoints can be monitored by characterising different locations on the cell. We will also use the cell to conduct accelerated kinetic studies using a transient technique in which rapid screening of residence times generated by a flow rate switch is performed. This technique requires high intensity x-rays afforded by synchrotron sources enabling short acquisition times. By identification of particle properties such as core diameter at various residence times the synthetic conditions can be altered to allow for tailoring of the produced product.