METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR X-RAY DIFFRACTION

摘要

Methods and apparatus are provided for performing back-reflection energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (XRD). This exhibits extremely low sensitivity to the morphology of the sample under investigation. As a consequence of this insensitivity, unprepared samples can be analysed using this method. For example, in a geological context, whole rock samples become amenable to analysis. A composite diffraction spectrum can be produced using information from different recorded spectra in different energy sub-ranges. The composite spectrum excludes fluorescence signals that would otherwise obscure the diffraction signals.

主权项

1. A method of inspecting a material sample by X-ray diffraction wherein the sample is irradiated with a beam of X-ray radiation from a source with a range of photon energies, and wherein a plurality of energy-resolved spectra are obtained from radiation diffracted by the sample, wherein a plurality of energy-resolved spectra are obtained using different settings of source energy, whereby at least one of said spectra excludes a fluorescence signal that is present in another of said spectra.