About NanoDSC

Many advanced materials, including nanocrystalline, amorphous, and defect-rich systems, cannot be fully characterized using conventional crystallographic techniques based on Bragg diffraction. While X-ray and electron diffraction reveal long-range order, they provide limited insight into local atomic arrangements that often determine a material’s properties. NanoDSC addresses this challenge through high-energy X-ray total scattering and Pair Distribution Function (PDF) analysis, a powerful approach that combines Bragg and diffuse scattering to reveal short- and medium-range atomic structure. This enables the investigation of local distortions, structural defects, nanophases, and atomic-scale dynamics in both crystalline and non-crystalline materials. The project will establish a state-of-the-art high-energy X-ray total scattering facility at the University of Crete, providing unique capabilities for advanced structural characterization and operando studies. The new infrastructure will strengthen interdisciplinary research, support education and training, and foster national and international collaborations. By uncovering the relationship between local atomic structure and material performance, NanoDSC will accelerate the development of next-generation materials for clean energy technologies, including catalysts for hydrogen production, CO₂ conversion, batteries, and photovoltaics, contributing to innovation and a more sustainable future.