Research at the European XFEL: Materials imaging and dynamics research on pre-hydrate cage formation

Felix Lehmkühler from Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY in Hamburg elucidates the onset of the cage/hydration shell formation with regards to clathrate nucleation. The aim is to investigate a known hydrate forming guest called THF mixed with water at a 1:17 ration cooling from 277 K will facilitate the onset of clathrate formation. This is done with the high time resolution and intensity possible at European XFEL’s Materials Imaging & Dynamics instrument (MID). Additionally, small angle scattering will also be measured to provide insights into the dynamics of cage formation. Understanding the prehydrate stage can provide insights into enhancing and inhibiting clathrate formation.