Micro- and milli-fluidic sample environments for in situ X-ray analysis in the chemical and materials sciences

Abstract

X-ray-based methods are powerful tools for structural and chemical studies of materials and processes, particularly for performing time-resolved measurements. In this critical review, we highlight progress in the development of X-ray compatible microfluidic and millifluidic platforms that enable high temporal and spatial resolution X-ray analysis across the chemical and materials sciences. With a focus on liquid samples and suspensions, we first present the origins of microfluidic sample environments for X-ray analysis by discussing some alternative liquid sample holder and manipulator technologies. The bulk of the review is then dedicated to micro- and milli-fluidic devices designed for use in the three main areas of X-ray analysis: (1) scattering/diffraction, (2) spectroscopy, and (3) imaging. While most research to date has been performed at synchrotron radiation facilities, the recent progress made using commercial and laboratory-based X-ray instruments is then reviewed here for the first time. This final section presents the exciting possibility of performing in situ and operando X-ray analysis in the ‘home’ laboratory and transforming microfluidic and millifluidic X-ray analysis into a routine method in physical chemistry and materials research.