Application of the small-angle X-ray scattering technique for structural analysis studies: A review.

Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) is widely used as an efficient method to analysis the structural changes. Thus, the aim of this mini-review was to summarize important information about performing SAXS technique. For more clarification, a brief introduction of the fundamental history, scattering theory, and essential structure of SAXS were presented at first. But the main focus was placed on the application of SAXS for structural analysis studies, including carbohydrate polymers, protein, and synthetic compounds. Additionally, the simultaneous performance of SAXS with other instruments was addressed to show the potential application value of SAXS technique in structural analysis field. Furthermore, the differences between SAXS and other similar techniques, including synchrotron X-ray diffraction (SXD), wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS), scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM), and wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), were discussed to save time and money for studies on structural analysis. Moreover, the practical points and future perspectives of utilizing SAXS technique were put forwards based on the diagnostic vision on the development direction of SAXS technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]