Benchmarking of advanced scattering probes for materials characterization.

The Pair Distribution Function (PDF) scattering technique has attained considerable prominence as a method for probing the nanoscale structure of materials. Such information is crucial to the understanding of many technologically important materials. However, PDF is strictly limited since it uses spherically averaged scattering data. In this proposal we will benchmark PDF against the more definitive Single Crystal Diffuse Scattering (SCDS) technique. Using samples to which both techniques can be applied, we will determine just how definitive the results from PDF are. This is crucial in evaluating conclusions drawn from PDF studies for a vast range of important materials, such as nanoparticles, functional oxides and high Tc superconductors.