Past Events

This course is intended to provide users with practical examples of fitting SAXS data with SASview software.

Since most SAXS profiles do not exhibit well defined peaks like crystalline diffraction but instead characteristic "slopes," it is a heavily model-dependent method. After proper data reduction of a SAXS patterns, the data interpretation methods include extracting structural information from standardized plots such as Guinier, Porod, Kratky and Zimm plots. Elements of SAXS data modeling include calculations of the radius of gyration, of the single-particle form factor, inter-particle structure factors and the modeling effects of polydispersity.

This course will teach users the basics of data collection using the SAXSLAB instrument.  The SAXSLAB system has automated detector positioning for SAXS/WAXS analyses of samples in capillaries or freestanding films in a transmission geometry and GISAXS/GIWAXS of samples supported on a monolithic substrate in grazing incidence reflection gemoetry. Calibration of the q-range using silver behenate, acquisition of empty, buffer (if sample is immersed in solvent) and dark current exposures for similar timescales and data reduction procedures will be covered. The SAXSLAB instrument is very well suited for analyzing polymers, soft materials, nanoparticles in solution or dried on substrates, porous samples, and nanostructured surfaces. The emphasis in this training session will be design of experiment, routine collection and data reduction.

SAXS - small angle X-ray scattering
WAXS - wide angle X-ray scattering
GISAXS - grazing incidence small angle X-ray scattering

Active MIT.nano user account is required to participate in this training. Please setup an account prior to registering for the training event. 

This lecture is intended for people who want to become independent self-user of the small or wide angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) instrument in the MRL X-Ray Lab.  SAXS describes the analysis of any sample that has nanostructured (1-100nm) electron density fluctuations -- i.e., nanoparticles in solution, block co-polymers, ionic liquids, soft matter, etc. Typically nanoscale electron density variations arise as structured (nanoscale object in a lattice), unstructured (in solution), or oriented (fiber or affixed to substrate) therefore treatment of each type of sample is on a case by case basis.  

Students must also attend SAXSLAB instrument specific training course to learn how to put the knowledge obtained in the lecture to practice.

This lecture will survey the fundamentals of small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), focusing on the bare essentials required to productively collect and analyze SAXS data.  In addition to theory, this lecture will cover practical considerations such as common sources of error and a guide to structural interpretation and justification using SAXS patterns.

All users without previous cleanroom work experience are required to take the quick-start training. Waivers for prior experience will be handled during the Fab.nano orientation.

The quick-start provides hands-on training to new users, by following through a simple 1-mask process in a small group. You will gain familiarity with entering the lab, handling samples, learn about deposition, lithography and etch tools, and how to verify process results.

An active MIT.nano user account is required to participate in this training. Please setup an account prior to registering for the training event.

Because we are working in the lab, please wear long pants and full shoes

Please have the Fab.nano Orientation completed before the quick-start event.

The orientation consists of a series of self-paced videos to watch, and a 30-minute check-in over zoom, where we provide an introduction, answer questions about the lab & capabilities and how to get started, and check for any missing trainings. All cleanroom and packaging space users need to complete the orientation before card access can be granted.

Users with no prior cleanroom experience also take a half-day “quick-start” class, which provides a hands-on experience in core methods (deposition, lithography, etch). Users with prior cleanroom experience will receive a waiver during the orientation check-in. If you only need to use the packaging space (and not the cleanroom), the quick-start is not needed.

Registering for the orientation, you will get a chance to describe your general fabrication needs, helping us better understand each user’s goals and expectations. The registration form also contains a checklist to help you spot any missing EHS trainings.

After registering, you will get an email with a link to the videos to watch, and the zoom link to the orientation event.

This group training event will focus on the basic theory and operation of the Agilent 5100 DVD Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometer 
Users will learn about specifics of the instrument capabilities and strategies for data collection and data quality improvement. This is usually two session <2hours each. During the first session we will run a DEMO samples and we will discuss your sample preparation. For your second session Instructor will assist you run your samples.  Second session will be scheduled at the end of this session. We will work together until we are both comfortable with your safe and successful operation of the instrument in a shared facility environment.  Full independent tool access will be granted upon completion of both training sessions.
 

Active MIT.nano user account is required to participate in this training. Please setup an account prior to registering for the training event. 

This group training event will focus on the basic theory and operation of the Perkin Elmer 1050 UVVISNIR Spectrophotometer
Users will learn about specifics of the instrument capabilities and strategies for data collection and data quality improvement. Users can bring their own (non-hazardous) samples for this training. We will work together until we are both comfortable with your safe and successful operation of the instrument in a shared facility environment. This is usually one session <2hours. Full independent tool access will be granted upon completion of this training session.
 

Active MIT.nano user account is required to participate in this training. Please setup an account prior to registering for the training event. 

This group training event will focus on the basic theory and operation of the Quantum Design Inc. Magnetic Property Measurement System (MPMS-3). Users will learn about specifics of the instrument capabilities and strategies for data collection and data quality improvement. 

Please review the MPMS Introduction video prior to the training

After this session you can schedule time to run your sample(s).
 

Active MIT.nano user account is required to participate in this training. Please setup an account prior to registering for the training event. 

All users have lab access during staffed hours (Mo-Th 8am - 9pm; Fr 8am-7pm).  To be able to use the lab after-hours and on weekends, users need to understand how to respond in emergency situations. During the 24h access qualification, a small group of PTC members ask you relevant safety questions that allow you to demonstrate your knowledge. This discussion typically takes 10-15 minutes.

Prior completion of the wet chemical training is required, as it provides the relevant safety foundations. 

This instrument training will teach users how to use the Multiwire Back-Reflection Laue Diffractometer to determine the orientation of single crystals and to determine if single crystals are possibly twinned.

Active MIT.nano user account is required to participate in this training. Please setup an account prior to registering for the training event.