X-ray diffraction (XRD)
X-ray diffraction (XRD) is used to determine mineral composition of crystalline materials.
We have a Panalytical Empyrean XRD. It is a non-destructive method on powder samples commonly used by geologists to characterise rocks and soils. XRD results can be complemented by X-ray fluorescence (XRF), which determines elemental composition. Both methods, which are performed at the University of Waikato, can be used in conjunction with each other.
Other applications for XRD include environmental monitoring, pharmaceuticals, alloy identification, forensics, art and archaeology.
The School of Science also runs protein crystal and small molecule analysis on a Single Crystal X-ray Diffraction” (SCXRD).
Common Services
- Qualitative bulk analysis of rocks or soils
- Qualitative clay analysis of rocks or soils
Materials Tested
- Rocks
- Soils
- Sea shells