Powder X-ray Diffraction
The Institute of Geochemistry and Petrology operates a Powder X-ray Diffractometer (Empyrean 3, Malvern Panalytical, in operation since Oct. 2021), which is equipped with a Cu Kα X-ray source, a PIXcel 1D detector, a scintillation counter, and an automatic sample changer for up to 30 samples.
Finely grounded powders of natural rocks, minerals, soil samples and experimentally synthesised materials ranging from a few milligrams to a few grams are routinely measured. We also commonly analyse inorganic and organic samples including nanoparticles, thin films from chemistry, material and environmental sciences.
Standard phase identification is performed in house using HighScore software (three licenses on desktop computers located in the lab) with COD and PDF-2 database. In addition, our software allows the users to perform comprehensive Rietveld refinement (i.e. typically to estimate the phase abundances from a mixture).
Lab impressions
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Empyrean 3 Powder diffractometer (Bragg-Brentano geometry) -
XRD source (left) and detector (right). -
Typical sample holders and preparation tools
Services
ETH-internal service
We offer access to our laboratory, assist to design an analytical strategy, instruct the user in sample preparation operation of the powder XRD diffractometer, data processing and interpretation.
Trained users will make reservations of the instrument using the protected page IGP lab agenda, operate the instrument and process the results independently. To more frequent users and/or persons interested in more advanced theoretical aspects of powder X-ray diffraction, we recommend attending the course “651-4063-00L X-Ray Powder Diffraction” by Dr. M. Plötze offered in Autumn Semester.
For new users, we typically provide a 2-half day training tutorial. Please first download and have a look at our lab manual (beta version), then contact one of responsible lab staff and provide the following information:
- who are you
- where do you study/work
- what types and (approximate) numbers of samples do you intend to analyse
- what information do you expect to obtain from the measurements
- when do you wish to have the tutorial and if you have any previous experience with XRD (e.g. lectures, practical experience, etc.)
Download Empyrean XRD Operation Manual (v2) (PDF, 1.2 MB) - by Ma Ning
Download HighScore Rietveld refinement tutorial (v2) (PDF, 2.4 MB) - by Ma Ning
Commercial service
We offer analysis of solid samples including preparation, analysis and interpretation of XRD spectra to external customers at competitive rates and with (very) short turnover time. For further information and quotes, please contact one of the responsible lab staff.