Structure characterization of nanocrystalline porous materials by tomographic electron diffraction

Abstract

Abstract Several porous phases have been characterized in the last years by tomographic electron diffraction. This paper provides an overview of the analyzed phases, pointing out the difficulties associated with different classes of materials or specific sample characteristics. The two methods for tomographic electron diffraction acquisition, automated diffraction tomography and rotation electron diffraction, are described in detail, as well as data reduction algorithms. Attainments and limits of different structure determination and refinement algorithms are discussed for inorganic, organic and hybrid organic-inorganic materials. Finally, it is shown how tomographic electron diffraction and X-ray powder diffraction data can be combined for a comprehensive characterization of porous materials.