Hybridization of wide-angle X-ray and neutron diffraction techniques in the crystal structure analyses of synthetic polymers

Tashiro, Koji*; Kusaka, Katsuhiro*; Yamamoto, Hiroko*; Hosoya, Takaaki*; Okada, Shuji*; Ohara, Takashi   

The development in the crystal structure analysis of synthetic polymers using the hybridized combination of wide-angle X-ray and neutron diffraction (WAXD and WAND, respectively) techniques has been reviewed with many case studies performed by the authors. At first, the technical development was reviewed. Secondly, the usage of the WAND method was introduced, in which the successful extraction of hydrogen atomic positions was described. The third example is to show the importance for the hybrid combination of these two diffraction methods. Finally, the application of WAND technique in the trace of structural changes induced under the application of external stress or temperature was described. The future perspective is described for the development of structural science of synthetic polymers on the basis of the combined WAXD/WAND techniques.