XRD-PDF (Pair Distribution Function) Workshop

About The Event

Topics High-energy X-ray diffraction experiments enable, in addition to conventional X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques, carrying out Pair Distribution Function analysis (PDF). PDF analysis takes into account both Bragg diffraction and diffuse scattering enabling to give access to the various atomic scales of materials. As a result, conformation and arrangement of molecules within the materials can be studied for X-ray amorphous and semi-crystalline materials. The workshop will introduce the XRD-PDF method and highlight its strengths for applications for pharmaceutical compounds, in polymer and catalysis science. Practical work will be organized on the Malvern Panalytical Empyrean instrument along with a HighScore Plus software training. The various aspects of obtaining optimal PDF data will be covered, from sample preparation to experimental set-up and data reduction. Target audience Ph.D students, Postdoctoral researchers and Scientists focusing on the structural analysis of nanocrystalline and amorphous materials and being interested in learning about the latest developments in the PDF analysis in laboratory and synchrotron facilities. The participation requires a solid background in X-ray diffraction and scattering. Objectives The aim of this workshop is to provide researchers with theoretical and practical knowledge about the X-ray PDF analysis and its exploitability in different fields of application. The practical section aims to train users for the collection of reliable datasets for PDF analysis using the Malvern Panalytical Empyrean system and performing the data reduction using the HighScore Plus software.