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Upgraded X-ray Diffractometer |
The geology program at UTC has recently upgraded its X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The project was funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF DUE-9952345) and UTC's Center of Excellence for Computer Applications (CECA).
The upgraded XRD, commissioned in June of 2001, will be used for both research and instructional purposes and will be integrated into the existing geology curriculum.
Also see the NSF DUE PIRS page for this project .
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The old instrument (top left) was a Phillips Norelco XRD that was acquired by the geology program in 1969. It consisted of a type 120 101 00 X-ray generator, a type 150 100 00 wide range goniometer, a graphite monochromator (AMR), a type 850 101 00 scintillation detector, IC 2000 signal processing and counting electronics, and a strip-chart recorder. Without automation, this instrument was too cumbersome for student use. It also lacked modern safety devices. The new (upgraded) instrument (top right), a PW1830 / 3550 / 3710 from Philips Analytical, is automated and includes safety devices that the old instrument lacked. The remanufactured goniometer (right) is similar in design to the old goniometer. However, the shielding is greatly improved and it is fitted with an interlocked safety circuit that prevents access to the sample chamber or the slits with the shutter open. |
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| The XRD lab is now part of our geochemistry laboratory. The upgraded diffractometer occupies a 9-ft-wide by 6-ft-deep alcove, which was created by removing the wall and doorway between the main lab and a small inner lab. |
 A photo of the geochemistry lab showing the doorway to the small inner lab. (June '00) |
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This spacious lab will accommodate groups of students and contains much of the equipment necessary for sample preparation. This is a tremendous improvement over the cramped, basement location of the old instrument. |
 The doorway to the inner lab was removed to create the alcove, which now contains the new XRD (ghost image). Note the water chiller (beige cabinet). (August '00) |
| Floor plan of the geochemistry lab (Rm. 110, Bretske Hall) showing the XRD, water chiller, and supporting computer equipment. |
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XRD Lab |
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