Multispectral small-angle light scattering from particles.

Abstract

Using a supercontinuum laser, reflective optics, and a spatial filter, we measure two-dimensional small-angle light-scattering patterns for a variety of microparticles including spheres, salt, sand, and volcanic dust. The measurements are done at 13 wavelengths from 450-850 nm, where the absence of refractive optical elements minimizes the effects of chromatic aberration. Qualitative particle-material sensitivity is demonstrated by layering differently colored patterns. Last, the multispectral capability of our device demonstrates a new possibility to probe different q-space regimes for a given particle in a single measurement.