Small-angle neutron scattering from amorphous polymers

The application of small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) to the study of polymers has revolutionized the approach to investigating polymer chain statistics, thermodynamics and dynamics. Some of the significant developments in this field during the past 15 years are described, including the demonstration of Gaussian coil behavior in polymer melts, derivation and application of the scattering theories for homogeneous polymer mixtures, and the recently discovered polymer isotope effect. Specific examples have been selected from a vast literature for the purpose of demonstrating the unique advantages and potential complications associated with the combined use of deuterium labeling and SANS. (orig.)