In situ investigation of melanin nanoparticles formation mechanism by USAXS

This project aims to investigate synthetic melanin NPs synthesis mechanism by means of the Ultra Small-Angle X-ray Scattering (USAXS) technique, studying the synthesis of polydopamine (PDA) and Allomelanin (AMN), the most common forms of this material. The formation of synthetic melanin NPs occurs in water, through an oxidative polymerization process. This process is usually monitored by absorption spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering (DLS). However, with these methods it is only possible to obtain partial information on the melanin formation pathways. Monitoring melanin formation through the in situ USAXS experiment would provide more detailed knowledge on the synthetic mechanisms, being able to identify NPs and polymeric structures since their early stages of formation (Guinier area). A deep understanding of what happens in the very beginning of melanin polymerization could have a pivotal impact on the conception of the synthesis of this highly employed material.