The contrast match neutron reflectivity technique for the study of broad polymer/polymer interfaces

We have explored the sensitivity of neutron reflectivity to broad polymer/polymer interfaces by using the contrast matching technique. Substitutions between hydrogen and deuterium were used to manipulate the refractive index of the polymers and match the different phases, to obtain contrast only at the interface between the two polymer layers. The accuracy and sensibility to the interfacial roughness of the polymer/polymer system on a silicon substrate is improved in contrast match. Contrast match could then be employed in future work to characterise wider interfaces in solid polymer/polymer systems.