29. Neutron Scattering Methods in Chemistry

Starting with basic properties of the neutron, this chapter reviews the most important neutron scattering methods that provide valuable information for a chemist. The range of such methods is amazingly wide, from standard methods of crystallography to neutron spin echo spectroscopy. Experimental techniques like neutron reflectometry and small angle neutron scattering are able to probe large-scale structures on the surface and in the bulk, thus providing access to the “nano-world.” Apart from traditional areas of solid-state physics, like studying phonons, a particular emphasis is placed on the microscopic and mesoscopic structure and dynamics in the liquid state. Practical aspects, such as main components of the instrumentation, are also touched upon.