Structure factor determination of amorphous materials by neutron diffraction

An introduction is given to structure factor determination by means of neutron diffraction. The method of isotopic substitution, which allows us to separate the partial correlation functions, is also presented. Suitable instruments, the experimental procedures, and corrections are described. Other less-conventional techniques such as isomorphic substitution and anomalous dispersion are also discussed. Finally, examples of the structure factor determination in chalcogenide, molecular, telluride and phosphate glasses are discussed in order to illustrate the usefulness of the neutron diffraction technique.