Analytical Laboratory and X-Ray Diffraction Services

Sietronics is proud to offer an X-ray Diffraction service for the identification of minerals and chemical compounds in rock ores, slurries, sediments, filters, etc.

Our analytical laboratory handles thousands of samples which have been sent in from all over Australia and the world.

Applications

XRD has a wide range of applications in environmental, mining, pharmaceutical fields. Positive identification of minerals and compounds in these and many other fields are very important.

X-ray Diffraction aids in:

• Mine Site cleanups- by identifying and monitoring acid sulphates, sulfides, etc.

• Abandoned Industrial Sites- by identifying compounds used in manufacturing and secondary materials and by-products that have been left behind.

• Wood Treatment Plants- Determination of valence state (species) of sulphates and other compounds originating from Copper, Chrome, Arsenic treated timbers

• Water Treatment, Power Plants and Sewage Plants- identify crystalline deposits, which form and build up in pipes and sieve ponds.

• Dust Deposits- Identification and possible tracking of sources.

• Exploration and drilling programs

• Cements – analysis of clinkers and free lime

• Analysis of Silicon Carbides

Using the latest X-ray Diffraction (XRD) technology Sietronics is able to give a qualitative and/or quantitative mineralogical analysis of your samples.

The instrumentation combines a high-resolution goniometer with state of the art electronics for a rapid turnaround of sample analysis.

Methodology

Almost all crystalline inorganic compounds have a unique XRD fingerprint which can be used for positive identification.

The method used is to first identify the crystalline phases or minerals present in the sample. This is determined by using the Bruker-AXS Diffrac^plus software and the latest ICDD database.

Traditionally, XRD has been a qualitative determination however, for most geological samples and industrial materials, a quantitative determination is possible using Sietronics very own ground breaking Siroquant Software. This method also allows the non-crystalline (amorphous or glass) content to be measured.

Results

The output from the analysis is a written report in Microsoft Word format with the phase list and concentrations as well as the diffraction scan with the peak identification overlaid.  This format can be modified to suit your preference.  The XRD scan can be inserted into other documents as required.

Sample Requirements

The sample should be representative of the bulk material and be crushed to less than 50 micron powder - Sietronics can prepare the samples if required.  Approximately 5 grams of sample material is preferred, although quantities as small as 0.25g can be analysed.

Turnaround time

Typically 10 working days for standard samples however more complex samples may take longer and these will be discussed with customer upon receipt of sample. Critical samples can be given priority.

Price per sample

Price starts at $180 per sample (+ GST) for a basic qualitative analysis of the material.  Please contact us for full pricing information.

Availability of Service

This service is offered Australia-wide and it is also available to overseas users - please contact us for information on Australian customs and quarantine requirements prior to sending samples to ensure prompt service.  If you have any further questions or would like to submit samples, please contact us.

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