Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) was employed to identify the shape and porous organisation of the core particles and dynamic light scattering (DLS) to determine the swelling behaviour of the hybrid microgels. 
SAXS
Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) was employed to identify the shape and porous organisation of the core particles and dynamic light scattering (DLS) to determine the swelling behaviour of the hybrid microgels. 
DLS
In addition, cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) imaging of the hybrids confirms the different morphologies as well as the presence of the microgel network and the core-shell conformation. 
cryo-TEM
Finally, the response of the particles to an alternating electric field is demonstrated for hybrid rod-shaped microgels in situ using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).
CLSM