Scientists utilize X-ray diffraction (XRD) and other sophisticated tests like Industrial CT Scanning to tell us more about the atomic-level internal structure of material being studied. This testing allows them to observe the interaction of X-rays with the crystalline elements of a material. Results let them determine the identity of an unknown substance and its composition. XRD is employed in various fields ranging from chemistry and engineering to geology and materials science.
XRD works by beaming X-rays at the sample’s crystalline structures. As the beam hits the internal atoms of the compound, the X-rays then scatter in very specific directions. This scattering, or diffraction pattern, is then recorded and can be analyzed by experts at an XRD Testing lab. When they study the patterns, scientists are able to identify the materials in the test sample, determine the atomic arrangement of the crystals and measure features like spacing and crystalline size.
Enabling Identification of Counterfeit Pharmaceuticals
Being able to ensure the authenticity of pharmaceutical products is critical for the safety of people world-wide. In one case study, a major pharmaceutical firm used XRD to test tablets that were thought to be potentially counterfeit versions of the real product. XRD testing can identify substances within a product accurately and quickly, and the testing is non-destructive so the integrity of the samples can be maintained.
The X-Ray Diffraction patterns on the suspect tablets were compared to genuine versions of the drug. XRD revealed major differences in the crystalline structure, which indicated that the chemical compounds in the fake drug were not the same. This in turn led to a life-saving recall of the drugs that were counterfeit.
Maintaining Quality Control in the Aerospace Industry
Quality assurance is a foundational element of aerospace manufacturing. If a component has flaws and does not perform as expected, it can lead to the tragic and catastrophic loss of life. As part of their regular quality control process, one of the major manufacturers in the aerospace sector used XRD to test turbine blades.
These blades require precise and exacting material properties and are routinely subjected to a variety of extreme conditions. With XRD, quality control personnel and technicians were able to verify the composition of crystals within the metal alloy that was a key component in the blade manufacturing. When deviations in the expected patterns were found, it would indicate a potential for weakness in the blades.
Examining Structural Failures in Bridges
When a bridge fails, forensic and structural engineer are immediately called upon to help determine the cause of collapse or failure. In one of these cases, the experts began to gather samples of the steel from the bridge and then utilized XRD to do a thorough analysis of the crystal structure within the metal.
The internal testing identified an unexpectedly high amount of martensite, a brittle and hard form of steel that appears when the heat treatment processes are improper. With the presence of the brittle martensite, the steel did not meet the key specifications and requirements for the bridge, and thus contributed to the failure of the structure.
