Powder Sample Preparation

XRD-6000 Sample Preparation (Dried Powder)

1. The sample holder and preparation will vary depending on your sample.
2. The sample holders are available for use are located in the red basket in front of the XRD room inside MBM 2.
3. Assemble the items for powder samples. REMEMBER TO CLEAN ALL SURFACES FIRST BEFORE USING!
4. Spread the powder into the cavity using a spatula but do not pack or compress.
5. Remove excess powder with a straight edge or side of microscope slide. The surface of the sample should be smooth. DO NOT SCRATCH TOP SURFACE!
6. Clean mating surfaces with small brush/ tissue/ wipes.
7. It is important to always have the top of your sample at the SAME height as the top of your sample holder (no exception!)
8. If your sample is not at the same height as your sample holder, the peaks obtained will be incorrectly shifted away from correct positions! Hence, you must make sure that the top of your sample is the SAME height as the top of your sample holder.
9. CLEAN UP AFTER EACH USE AND WIPE DOWN!

 

Figure 1: XRD sample holder

 
 

Figure 2: Spreading the powder into the cavity.

 
      

Figure 3: Removing the excess powder.

 

Figure 4: The surface of the sample should be smooth.

 

Figure 5: The top of your sample must be at the SAME height as the top of your sample holder.