Pore structure characterization and in-situ diffusion test in nanoporous membrane using SANS

Abstract

Using a selective phase dissolution technique, nano-porous membrane can be produced from simple two-phase metallic alloys. It contains through-thickness elongated channel-like pores of only a few hundred nanometer width and has a number of prospective applications. Knowledge of microstructural parameters is essential for membrane optimization. Non-destructive characterisation of the pore microstructure was carried out by small-angle neutron scattering technique. The combined results from pinhole and double-crystal facilities enabled to determine microstructural parameters of the nanoporous membrane (pore-to-pore distance, raft thickness, pore volume fraction, specific interface). The contrast variation using D2O and H2O helped to conclude on scattering length density of both γ' pore walls as well as the original γ-phase matrix. The kinetics experiment showed that the pores are filled instantly by liquid. The subsequent emptying of pores by evaporation was observed. © 2010 IOP Publishing Ltd.