Integrated X-ray Diffraction Service

The Integrated X-ray Diffraction Service of the University of La Laguna (SIDIX) aims to support basic and applied research in the different areas of knowledge of Geological Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Pharmacy, Biochemistry, Archaeology, Paleontology, Anthropology, Environmental Sciences, as well as contribute to providing services in the fields of Construction, Civil Engineering…

The service can handle a range of activities depending on the samples and studies requested. These activities may include:

Polycrystalline Samples:
Identification of different phases in samples, quantification of these phases using different techniques (RIR, Internal Standard and Rietveld), lattice parameters, symmetry, structural determination, temperature studies in a range of -173ºC to about 1200ºC, determination of particle size using SAXS…
Monocrystalline Samples:
Previous studies of symmetry, lattice parameters, identification of known substances by comparing them with structural data contained in databases (ICSD and CCDC), data collection, structural study and analysis. Structural studies as a function of temperature (-173ºC to 400ºC).
X-ray Fluorescence Measurements:
Study of the chemical composition of the samples according to the elements contained in them.

Applications

The main applications of this type of study in general can be grouped into the following sections:

Determination of the crystalline structure of a compound.
Study of the chemical composition of materials.
Identification and study of polymorphs for pharmaceutical use.
Identification and study of crystalline transitions as a function of temperature.
Study of the imperfections or defects of the materials (grain size of the crystals and preferential orientation).

Equipment: