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X-Ray Powder Diffraction
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:30:44
Abstract
In the course the students learn to measure X-ray diffraction patterns of minerals and to evaluate these using different software for qualitative and quantitative mineral composition as well as crystallographic parameters.
Objective
Upon successful completion of this course students are able to: - describe the principle of X-ray diffraction analysis - carry out a qualitative and quantitative mineralogical analysis independently, - critically assess the data, - communicate the results in a scientific report. The competencies of system understanding, concept development, and measurement methods are taught and examined.
Content
Fundamental principles of X-ray diffraction Setup and operation of X-ray diffractometers Interpretation of powder diffraction data Qualitative and quantitative phase analysis of crystalline powders (e.g. with Rietveld analysis)
Resources
Lecture Notes
Selected handouts will be made available in the lecture
Literature
BRINDLEY G.W. and BROWN G. (ed) Crystal structures of clay minerals and their X-ray identification. London : Mineralogical Society monograph no. 5 (1984) ( Link ) DINNEBIER, R.E. et al.: Powder Diffraction. Royal Society of Chemistry, Cambridge, 2008. ( http://pubs.rsc.org/en/Content/eBook/978-0-85404-231-9 ) PECHARSKY, V.K. and ZAVALIJ, P.Y: Fundamentals of Powder Diffraction and Structural Characterization of Materials. Springer, 2009. ( https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-0-387-09579-0?page=2#toc )
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 18
- Signup End
- 30.09.2024
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
X-Ray Powder Diffraction
Permission from lecturers required for all students.
|
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Compulsory Module in Analytical Methods in Earth Sciences (Students have to complete 6 credits in part A, and 6 credits in part B.)
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Restricted Choice Modules Geology (A minimum of two restricted choice modules must be completed for the major Geology.)
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Restricted Choice Modules Mineralogy and Geochemistry (A minimum of two restricted choice modules must be completed in the major Mineralogy and Geochemistry.)
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