Structural Characterization of Microgels by Means of Neutron Scattering, Reflectometry, and Computer Simulations

Here, we present how small-angle scattering and neutron reflectometry can be combined with computer simulations to characterise the structure and response of soft, compressible microgels, both in dilute condition and in crowded environments. After introducing the concept of softness, we summarise the principles of these scattering methods and describe the numerical synthesis of microgels. Then, we discuss how to probe both the internal architecture of an individual microgel and the structures formed in suspensions both in bulk and at interfaces. We highlight the power of contrast variation for selectively probing different parts of the sample and show how simulations complement experiments by accessing otherwise inaccessible information. Finally, we discuss future applications of microgel suspensions and soft colloids at interfaces.