Accessory for MCR:
Rheo-SALS

Small-angle light scattering (SALS) combined with rheology
Explore links between rheology and microstructure origins
Class 1 laser employing a certified laser safety concept
Dedicated analysis package with estimation of particle size distribution
Temperature range from -20 °C to +300 °C

Rheo-SALS

Key features
Compatible instruments
Similar products

The combination of small-angle light scattering (SALS) with rheological measurements is essential to understand the dependencies between the microstructure and the mechanical properties of complex fluids. SALS is a well-established technique for structure analysis in the size range of the applied laser's wavelength. Rheo-SALS by Anton Paar offers a wide scattering angle for structure measurements in a large size range. It provides the most valuable insights into shear-dependent changes in microstructure or crystallization processes during shear, which can be relevant for multiple applications, such as the production and development of emulsions, suspensions, or polymer solutions.

Key features

Gain structural information simultaneously with rheological data in real time

In a Rheo-SALS setup, a primary laser beam is focused on a sheared sample that scatters the light. This allows structural information and rheological data to be collected simultaneously and in real-time. All rheological test modes are available in this setup, which can be combined with temperature control systems either based on Peltier (-20 °C to +200 °C) or electrical heating (up to 300 °C). A heated bottom plate and a hood that ensures low temperature gradients prevent sample oxidation and enable purging with nitrogen. Depending on the sample’s viscosity, a parallel-plate or a double-gap system can be used.

Laser Class 1 for the highest safety

The SALS option enables you to work with polarizers before and after the sample, and measure with polarized and depolarized light. The modular open design consists of a laser diode, a CCD camera, optics, and polarizers with a laser integrated in the upper module. The laser conforms to laser Class 1, employing a certified laser safety concept. The optics can be moved independently of the laser for a flexible focus on different points of the sample. The option is pre-aligned and does not require any major user alignments, minimizing installation time and maximizing measurement time.

Match data with images and videos from the integrated CCD camera

The integrated camera automatically records images and videos during the test, which can then be directly linked to the rheological data within the RheoCompass rheometer software. Once saved, you can analyze the recorded measurement images or videos at any time. Both the rheometer and CCD camera are controlled by the software, and the scattering patterns can be further analyzed by using a dedicated software package (including the estimation of particle size distribution). This ideal match between measurement and analysis technology delivers valuable data for research and development.

RheoOptics Toolbox: Combine Rheo-SALS with other optical methods for full-range sample analysis

The SALS option is part of the modular RheoOptics Toolbox for the MCR rheometer. Quickly switch between the SALS option and other optical tools, such as Raman spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, light microscopy, polarized light imaging, and UV curing. All of these optical tools can also be combined with Peltier and electrical temperature devices. Anton Paar offers further accessories for particle imaging velocimetry (PIV), dielectric spectroscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), and small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), which can be easily mounted on your MCR rheometer to open up even more possibilities for structure analysis.

Deeper insights for smart material development

All materials showing shear-induced changes in microstructure or shear-dependent crystallization processes are suitable for investigations with Rheo-SALS. In general, Rheo-SALS can be used for all samples with inherent microstructure (e.g., as a method complementing rheology combined with a light microscope). Typical examples of such materials include emulsions (e.g., food and consumer products), suspensions, colloidal solutions, surfactants, polymer solutions, polymer melts, polymer blends, and soft matter (e.g., hydrogels for life-science applications).