Neutron and X-Ray Scattering

We use a variety of neutron and x-ray techniques to investigate the structure and dynamics of energy and quantum materials with properties that emerge from the presence of local defects and complex short-range correlations.

(Right) Experimentally observed neutron scattering and ab-initio calculation of the generalized susceptibility in the coherent state of CePd₃. (Left) The quantitative excellent agreement validates a decades old prediction of the crossover to random electronic excitations observed at high temperature

The objective of our research is to obtain an understanding of the critical roles of local disorder and short-range correlations in driving materials properties of importance for future energy applications. To progress towards this goal, we develop and utilize advanced methods based on neutron and X-ray scattering techniques to characterize and so determine the origin, nature, and consequences of the different long- and short-range ordered states found in crystalline materials with a variety of properties of interest. This knowledge is crucial for enabling the design of novel materials with desired functionality.

Current research themes are the following:

Research Highlight

Intertwined spin, charge, and lattice order in KMn₆Bi₅

In a study published in Physical Review B, researchers report that superconductivity emerges when the spin density wave is suppressed in quasi-one-dimensional KMn₆Bi₅.

November 23, 2022

Research Highlight

Universality of magnetic orders in iron superconductors

In a study published in Communications Physics, researchers reveal the presence of three types of magnetic order in an iron superconductor (LaFeAs₁_-ₓPₓO).

June 14, 2022

Research Highlight

Harnessing machine learning to address X-ray diffraction

In a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers report that machine learning can reveal all the critical features within X-ray scattering “big data” required to determine the origin of structural correlations.

June 09, 2022

Press Release

Argonne National Laboratory

Intertwined spin, charge, and lattice order in KMn₆Bi₅

Universality of magnetic orders in iron superconductors

Harnessing machine learning to address X-ray diffraction

Uncovering nature’s patterns at the atomic scale in living color

Scientists discover a surprising structural change in metal oxide at low temperature

National school on neutron and X-ray scattering brings students together with two national labs

Argonne National Laboratory

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

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