On-the-Fly SAXS/WAXS Analysis for Soft Materials Processing

In-situ characterization of polymers under processing conditions is critical for developing materials that can withstand extreme conditions; however, it poses significant challenges due to the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of these environments. The characterization of these processes, along with the corresponding on-the-fly analysis and visualization, are crucial for understanding material dynamics and optimizing the efficiency of photon usage in synchrotrons. This talk will present the transformative capabilities of in-situ SAXS/WAXS experiments at the CMS beamline of NSLS-II in studying soft materials, such as polymers, under various processing conditions, including heating, stretching, pressing, poling, and exposure to humidity, even extreme conditions like high pressure. . We will present case studies of in-situ SAXS/WAXS experiments conducted on polymers, which reveal important insights into the materials' structural dynamics and stability. Additionally, the talk will cover advanced data analysis methods enabled by artificial intelligence and machine learning, which enhance the interpretation of complex data sets and contribute to a more accurate and efficient analysis of structural changes. These studies are expected to contribute significantly to the development of next-generation soft, reconfigurable materials designed for applications in challenging conditions.