X-ray diffraction
X-ray Diffraction (XRD) is generally the fastest and most reliable method used in the identification and quantification of crystalline materials of pure phases or mixtures. Powdered samples are analysed and matched against a databases, therby identifying the unknown phases within the sample. The technique utilises the diffraction (reflection) of X-rays from the unique arrangement of atoms in a crystal structure, the resulting data is shown graphically in the form of a diffraction pattern or 'diffractogram'.
XRD can be used to identify mineral specimens (ie. individual grains, mineral assemblages, weathering products, rocks, soils, clay minerals etc.) and industrial products (ie. chemical products, boiler scales, corrosion products, asbestos minerals, furnace slags and ashes, etc.). In fact, most types of solid crystalline materials will produce a diffraction pattern. Quantification is performed using Rietveld analysis using Siroquant software.
Examples of material analysed recently include:
- Aggregates
- Minerals and Ores
- Mine Tailings
- Heavy Mineral Seperates
- GGBS and PFA
- Limestone
- Silica Sand and Clays
- Airborne Quartz
Contact Angus Calder for information and assistance on X-ray diffraction requirements.
