X-ray powder diffraction is one of the most common in-house characterisation methods, used to provide information on a host of different samples including metals, ceramics, battery materials and pharmaceuticals. This course will explore powder diffraction refinement techniques used to analyse the data obtained. This course is a basic introduction to these techniques and their application. It will include a strong practical element, with guided walkthroughs and trial examples. Information on the underlying theory of powder diffraction will also be provided as a series of virtual lectures in advance of the session.

This course is suitable for researchers working in both academia and industry that want to learn how to carry out powder diffraction refinement.

Learning objectives: 

• To understand the basics of powder diffraction refinement theory and how it affects how we carry out a refinement

• To be able to set up and run a powder refinement (using the GSAS-II software)

• To be aware of different types of powder refinement fits (Rietveld, Pawley, Le Bail) and how they might be useful

Various topics will be discussed including lattice parameter determination, instrument parameter files, crystallite size determination, quantitative phase analysis, and different refinements methods. 

Participants on the course will be provided with:

• Complete set of course notes covering the theory of powder diffraction refinement

• Access to a series of video lectures on X-ray powder diffraction theory

• Walk -through guide on setting up a refinement in GSAS-II

• Series of example refinement problems with suitable guidance

MONDAY 29th JANUARY, 09:00 - 1700