XRD/XRF
X-ray diffraction
X-ray diffraction is used to analyze the mineral composition of powders from unknown substances. The department operates two Siemens D5000 diffractometers, one of which is equipped with a 40-position sample changer. Together with the Department of Mineralogy, a total of five diffractometers are available, covering the following areas:
- Routine analysis, high sample throughput
- Microanalysis, textures (GADDS system)
- Kinematics (D8 with position-sensitive detector)
- Minimal sample sizes, kinematics (D5000 with SOLX detector)
Our areas of focus:
- Qualitative Analysis
- Quantitative analyses, particularly Rietveld analysis and the quantification of clay-mineral-bearing sediments
- Determination of crystallinity
- Microparticle characterization
Software used:
- BGMN, Free Rietveld software
- Profex, GUI for BGMN
- runBGMN, Scripts and tools, extension for Profex/BGMN
XRF – X-ray fluorescence analysis
X-ray fluorescence analysis can be used to determine the concentrations of major and trace elements in rocks or engineering materials.
The current calibration of our energy-dispersive instrument is based on silicate rocks, primarily igneous rocks. The analysis is performed using fusion pellets.
Here you will find information on the measurable parameters, calibration, detection limits, and measurement ranges, as well as on the accuracy and reproducibility of the measurements.
We are currently working on additional calibrations for sediments, cements, and engineering materials.
We perform contract analysis and are happy to advise you on your analytical needs.