Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|
XRPD and Rietveld Modeling | • Reitveld analysis can be used to understand peak broadening due to size/strain or amorphous content | • Requires careful deconvolution of size and strain effects and the assessment of instrumental broadening |
DSC | • Simple • Change in heating ramps to delineate differences between in “true” amorphous state and defects | • Variable response from different PSD fractions due to small size • Recrystallization/annealing depends on the condition of the run and extent of cooling |
DEA | • Can show typical glassy state signatures – peak loss and beta relaxation • Response vs. Hz can help delineate the type of transition | • Overlapping signals may be difficult to deconvolute if multiple transitions occur in the same temperature range |
SSNMR | • Molecular level picture • Relaxation time maps can help differentiation | • Long acquisition times in only 13C are available • Labeling may be required to deconvolute origins of transitions at the molecular level • Indirect indication of structure through relaxation time measurements |
Pair Distribution Function analysis | • Molecular level picture of the phase • More sensitive to local structure/order | • Careful analysis of data is required • Molecular models may be needed for getting a complete picture |