How Scientists Use XRD Testing
Our world has become more and more complex, as new compounds and formulas are developed. Scientists are regularly tasked with using sophisticated testing systems and technologies to help reveal the precise composition of materials or products we use, or are discovered in our environment. These tests and advanced laboratory protocols can be found across different fields of study, ranging from geology and materials science to pharmaceuticals, chemistry and engineering. One such advanced testing methodology is X-Ray Powder Diffraction, or XRD. Discovered by Max von Laue, XRD testing was first introduced in 1912 at the Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of Munich.
When testing is going to be done at an XRD lab, scientists or technicians first take a small portion of the substance and then grind it into a fine powdered form. From there, the test can be utilized to specifically identify the unique crystalline structure of the material. When the test is conducted, the different atoms in the test sample diffract the x-rays. The precise pattern of distraction gives information about how the atoms are arranged in the crystalline structure. The intensities and unique angles that are scattered are then used to specifically determine both the composition and the crystalline structure.
Benefits of X-Ray Powder Diffraction Testing
One of the benefits of testing using XRD is that the tests are non-destructive. This is particularly valuable when scientists are analyzing material that needs to be preserved, like historical artifacts, or samples of high value. XRD provides data about atomic spacing that is very precise, and can identify even small structural changes between samples.
The XRD testing process also offers rapid analysis, as testing only takes a few minutes for each sample. This is very valuable when doing quality control testing during production. It can provided both qualitative and quantitative data on both a material’s structure and its composition.
The Use of XRD Testing in the Pharmaceutical Industry
The safety of our pharmaceuticals and medicines is critical. XRD testing and analysis is used to help test new drugs during the development process. With XRD, pharmacy company scientists can identify each mineral and component that is contained within a version of a drug. The technology is also used throughout the manufacturing process to assure product quality.
The level of detail and accuracy provided by XRD testing helps pharmaceutical companies improve the formulation of their products. It can also be used to produce test results that measure the stability of drugs in a variety of environments.
Using XRD Testing to Avert Potential Disasters
In some regions of the country, mud flows and landslides can occur and endanger both lives and property. In order to help pinpoint the potential areas where the disasters could occur, scientists used remote sensing along with XRD testing to look at clay-rich geological rock formations from selected Cascade volcanoes.
The scientists focused on these rock formations because they were altered hydrothermally, and it was thought that they could contribute to potential damaging slides and mud flows. XRD helped scientists precisely identify the minerals that were in these rocks, and further understand the precise absorption features of the selected samples.
