Shape characterization of a large nonspherical particle by use of its Fraunhofer diffraction pattern

Abstract

We characterize the shape of a large nonspherical particle by means of the two-dimensional Fourier transformation of its diffraction pattern, called the S function. The main properties of S functions are considered. Some ways in which to retrieve the geometric parameters of a particle by use of its S function are discussed. In particular, the parameter of nonsphericity of a particle is defined by means of the S function.