Guinier

Guinier is a French surname. The name is of French origin and is borne by several individuals in science, culture, and public life. Notable figures include André Guinier, a French physicist known for foundational work in X-ray scattering. In small-angle X-ray scattering, the Guinier region describes the very low-angle portion of the scattering curve where I(q) ≈ I(0) exp(-q^2 Rg^2 / 3). The Guinier approximation and Guinier plot are named after him and are widely used to estimate the radius of gyration and molecular size from scattering data.

In metallurgy, the term Guinier-Preston zones, or GP zones, denotes nanoscale clusters of solute atoms that form during the early aging of certain aluminum alloys. These clusters influence subsequent precipitation and strengthening behavior and are named after Guinier and G. Preston, who described them in the mid-20th century.

Beyond these scientific usages, Guinier remains a family name with various bearers in different fields. The surname is relatively uncommon and most frequently found among French-speaking populations and their descendants.