The X-ray Diffraction Unit gathers all the techniques together which are based on the diffraction of X-rays on crystalline solids.
The principal objective of the unit is giving support to the research groups and Crysforma Unit located at the ICIQ in the characterization of their chemical compounds which are available in a crystalline state.
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Two principal techniques are available: Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD) and Single Crystal X-ray Diffraction (SCXRD).
The PXRD technique is used basically as a primary screening method and delivers a finger print of each different crystalline form analyzed. This method gives a basic service to all users at the ICIQ with a system which allows easy sample preparation and short measuring time for a high number of samples.
The SCXRD technique delivers a three-dimensional structure at atomic scale of a selected crystalline compound. This method is highly specialized with a system fitted together from high performance components. The objective in this case is to give a direct support to the research groups solving problems in all levels of difficulty. This support includes the crystallization of problematic samples, the preparation of crystals of poor quality and the refinement of troubling datasets.