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XRD (X-Ray Diffraction), Quantitative Analysis – In House Method
Conti Testing Laboratories offers a comprehensive quantitative X-ray diffraction (XRD) package that includes measurement of both crystalline and amorphous (non-crystalline) phases. Our advanced analysis not only quantifies mineral forms but also determines the distribution of elements between crystalline and amorphous structures. Complemented by elemental analysis from a suite of supporting instruments, our integrated approach delivers a complete picture of your sample’s mineralogical and chemical composition.
X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Rietveld Refinement Analysis: Conti Testing Laboratories provides advanced X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) services for mineral identification and quantitative phase analysis. Using the Rietveld refinement method, we determine the precise mineralogical composition of geological, industrial, and environmental materials. Samples are finely ground to -400 mesh (37 µm) and blended with NIST-certified reference materials to enable accurate measurement of amorphous and crystalline phases.
High-Resolution XRD Data Collection: Our step-scanned XRD measurements are performed using a Siemens automated diffractometer configured with Bragg-Brentano geometry. Utilizing Cu Kα radiation (45 kV, 30 mA), data is collected from 4.9° to 66.1° 2θ with a 0.015° step size and 1.2-second dwell time. Detection is performed using a Ketek Vitus H150 silicon drift detector paired with an Amptek PX5 pulse processor—ensuring high-resolution XRD results for even complex mineral matrices.
Mineral Phase Identification (Qualitative XRD): We perform qualitative XRD analysis using advanced pattern recognition software and a leading crystal structure database. This enables precise identification of major, minor, and trace mineral phases in materials such as rocks, ores, slags, cements, and industrial byproducts.
Quantitative XRD Analysis Using Rietveld Method: Our quantitative XRD services rely on full-pattern Rietveld refinement to calculate the relative abundances of each mineral phase, including non-crystalline (amorphous) content. This approach supports in-depth mineralogical characterization for applications in mining, materials testing, cement quality control, waste valorization, and more.
