PXRD Training and Registration
Access
Measurements are carried out by trained users and there is no sample running service. User training for the Powder X-ray Diffractometers in the facility is only open to those within the Chemistry department, or members of other departments who are supported by research groups within the Chemistry department. Access may be arranged for members of other departments if they anticipate being regular users, but this can be a lengthy process and is not appropriate for temporary use while instruments in other facilities are down.
Registration for work with ionising radiation
The Powder X-ray Diffractometers of the facility generate ionising radiation and as such, fall under the classification of "x-ray generators, sealed sources & accelerators" at the University of Oxford. Users of the equipment must be first be registered with the central safety office before using the instruments. The following steps are required for access to be given:
1. Users will need in-person training on instruments from the RPS (see below). Click here for a sign-up to new training sessions, you will need to be logged into your Oxford Nexus365 account, please note the different weeks are in tabs of the spreadsheet. This signup sheet is only used during busy periods, if no sessions are available then contact the facility supervisor to enquire.
2. Users must also attend the next available "Safe use of x-ray generators, sealed sources & accelerators" training course (not the "Radiation safety for laboratory workers" course). Users should receive a certificate for completing this course, which should be emailed to the RPS.
3. New users must be registered with the safety office as working with ionising radiation. The facility manager can request this process be started for you, which they will do if you have signed up to training in step 1. You will receive a link from Odyssey RMS to a form to fill in, your supervisor will also receive notification so please ensure they are aware you are undertaking this training. If the link in step 1 does not appear to be in use then contact the facility manager by email or using the contact form to request this as well as training, including your position (DPhil, Postdoc, visitor etc) and who academic supervisor or line manager is.
3.b. If you are employed or studying at a different University during the time you intend undertake work with X-rays at the University of Oxford then you will need a letter from that institution stating they are aware of the work and give their consent.
The department of Chemistry has a responsibility to ensure that all work conforms to the Ionising Radiations Regulations of 2017. Users must comply with the local rules for use of the X-ray diffraction equipment. Importantly, the users of the X-ray diffraction instruments must be known to the RPS and vice versa, with a log of those users kept up to date.
Training for use of the instruments
Training of new users can be carried out on request, following completion of the registration form. All users of the facility will be given a safety induction for all three instruments and trained to use the Bruker D8 Advanced Eco and Malvern Panalytical X'pert diffractometers, taking approximately 90 minutes. Contact the facility supervisor to arrange training.
Users are not trained to use the molybdenum sourced Empyrean, separate 1-1 training with the instrument can be arranged if required.
