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327-2147-00L 2 Credits MSC D-MATL

Scattering of Soft Matter

Does not take place this semester. All enrolled students are initially placed on the “waiting list” until the registration deadline. In the case of more than 12 applicants, the students will be selected by the lecturers before the start of the lecture according to the priority criteria: master students before doctoral students, Material Science students before students of other departments. The course will only take place with a minimum of 4 students.

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:39:41

Abstract

This course provides the theoretical and practical foundation for small angle scattering experiments, which is a powerful and versatile method to study the structure and dynamics of soft materials on the nanometer scale. We will cover basic scattering theory, radiation types, instrumentation, practical experiment planning and execution, as well as tutorials for data analysis and interpretation.

Objective

With this course, the students will be able to: - Plan a scattering experiment with X-rays, neutrons or light - Judge the suitability of the sample to the technique and radiation - Choose the type of experiment (dynamic or static) to assess the unknown property - Perform a scattering experiment (SAXS practical) - Analyze the raw data of a given model system - Integrate the overall data acquisition, reduction and interpretation - Quote the state-of-the-art in scattering experiments and data analysis

Content

Course: The course starts with basic scattering theory, including the mathematical derivation of the scattering resulting from the dispersion of spherical colloidal particles, observed by neutrons, X-rays and light scattering, and the advantages/disadvantages of each type of radiation will be assessed, including the calculation of scattering length density and contrast. We will then distinguish between spectroscopy and scattering techniques, and demonstrate the instrumental requirements for scattering experiments. We will then dive into small angle scattering techniques for soft matter systems, discuss specifics of the sample requirements and data interpretation. Laboratory sessions and exercises: The practical scattering laboratory will include experiments on different types of soft matter with lab-SAXS. Each group of student will receive a system to characterize, and the results will be discussed and interpreted based on computer exercises in data analysis and modelling of scattering data.

General Information

Language: English
Levels: MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: end-of-semester examination
Mode: written 60 minutes
Aids: Open book exam

Open book written exam for 60 minutes (80%) and compulsory project based on practical work (20%).

Registration & Places

Signup End: 18.02.2026

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture with exercise	Scattering of Soft Matter Does not take place this semester.	No time listed	2 h weekly

Offered In

Materials Science Master
- Elective Courses (The students are free to choose individually from the entire course offer of ETH Zürich on the Master level. Please consult the study administration in case of questions.)