New X-Ray Diffractometer Opens up New Opportunities for Research and New Experiences for Students

 

 

The College of Science recently acquired an X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD). The equipment was funded by a DOD grant and the principal investigators are Professors of Chemistry and Biochemistry Chantal Stieber, Kathryn McCulloch, Bohdan Schatschneider, Alex John, and Physics and Astronomy Department Chair, Hector Mireles. The grant is made possible because 68% of students in the College of Science are from underrepresented groups and because the planned use of the device aligns with the goals of the Army Research Office in relation to chemical sciences and polymer chemistry.

This particular XRD is able to analyze both crystals and powder using its X-ray beam. It’s an important piece of equipment because it gives investigators a three dimensional view of a material’s atomic structure. Without an XRD on campus, researchers must send samples to a lab which is costly and can be risky when samples are fragile.

One of the primary uses of the device in the field of chemistry will be to analyze catalysts used in making plastics. Catalysts have a metal center which makes them difficult to characterize by other methods. Creating a crystal purifies the material and allows it to be analyzed by an XRD. While the catalysts are created through chemical processes, understanding the unique structure of the catalyst at an atomic level helps us to better understand it.

The device has uses in other disciplines as well. In biochemistry, crystals of protein are grown so they can be analyzed using the XRD. For geology researchers the XRD provides a reliable tool for mineral identification. The equipment will allow the Physics and Astronomy department to study materials for electronic devices.

The addition of an XRD to the College of Science provides Cal Poly Pomona students with practical experience on equipment that is the standard in industry and academic research. Students will gain a marketable skill and the opportunity to conduct a more thorough investigation of questions related to their chosen discipline. This experience will also prepare them for graduate work or a career in industry.