Access
The Inorganic Materials Characterisation facility provides training for users to conduct their own Powder X-ray Diffraction measurements and can offer support interpreting their data. There is no sample submission service associated with the IMC facility.
Access is open to all members of the Chemistry department. Due to the strict safety requirements of the instrumentation, it is not currently possible for persons external to the Chemistry department to use the diffractometers without formally becoming a visitor with an academic supervisor/sponsor.
Instruments
The facility includes a high-intensity Bruker D8 Advance Eco Cu sourced diffractometer with a fluorescence filtering LYNXEYE XE-T detector, and high-resolution Malvern Panalytical X’pert and Empyrean Cu sourced diffractometers with Ge(111) Johansson monochromators. The facility supervisor also manages a Mo sourced Empyrean diffractometer equipped with a 12-300K PheniX Cryostage, capable of programmed variable temperature PXRD and room temperature transmission mode capillary PXRD and PDF measurements. This instrument is not part of the standard user training but can be used on request (see booking).
Training
A call for new users to be trained will go out at the start of each academic year, but training can be arranged at any time. Please see the training webpage for more information and email the facility supervisor (or use the contact form) to arrange training.
Booking
Booking time on the diffractometers is now through the chemistry department's online booking system. Details can be found here.
Support
The facility provides in-person support on request and has a number of resources available to help its users understand the principles behind Powder X-ray Diffraction. Users are encouraged to seek support and if there are any resources you believe would be beneficial to multiple users then please contact the facility supervisor to suggest them.
