Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD)

Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD) is a technique used to identify and analyze the internal crystal structure of powdered materials. When a powdered sample is exposed to X-rays, the rays are scattered by the atomic planes within the crystals. These scattered rays interfere with each other, producing a pattern of bright and dark spots called a diffraction pattern. This pattern acts like a fingerprint, revealing the arrangement of atoms inside the material. PXRD helps scientists determine the composition, purity, and crystalline structure of materials such as minerals, pharmaceuticals, and research samples.