XRD is a widely used and essential technique that allows us to analyse the internal structure of crystalline materials. Developed in the early 20th century, XRD works by directing X-rays at a sample and measuring the distribution of waves (the diffraction pattern) that results. This process reveals important details about a material’s atomic arrangement. Understanding this atomic arrangement is crucial as it influences a material's fundamental properties, such as its solubility, stability, and overall performance

• Drug development: knowing the precise crystalline structure of a pharmaceutical compound can impact its solubility and bioavailability, ensuring the drug works effectively in the body. 

• Materials science: understanding the atomic arrangement helps in developing new materials with desired properties, such as stronger alloys or more efficient semiconductors. This non-destructive technique is essential across diverse industries, including geology.

Why do we use this technique?

This non-destructive technique provides precise information about a material's crystal structure, phase composition, and other key characteristics. It plays a critical role in research and development, helping to drive innovations and ensuring quality control in various fields, from the creation of new materials to the characterisation of compounds.

Contact us: [email protected]

Image caption: Professor Stephen Moggach with PHD student in the XRD facility

The Space Crystallography Node

As part of the International Space Centre Capability in Space Materials and Resources, the Space Crystallography Node at UWA, led by Professor Stephen Moggach, focuses on determining the crystal structures of molecular co-crystals that are likely to form on the surface of Titan – Saturn’s largest moon. These molecular co-crystals may provide insights into the origin of life.

Our team combines strong academic leadership with dedicated technical expertise to deliver comprehensive research services that foster meaningful collaboration.

We work closely with researchers, affiliates, and industry partners, offering a full range of engagement options including collaborative projects, user access and fee-for-service models that encompass sample preparation, analysis, and reporting. Backed by 50 years of collective experience in crystallographic investigations, we provide expert guidance and support at every stage of your research.

The X-ray Diffraction facility at the University of Western Australia is equipped with state-of-the-art instruments capable of generating high-quality crystallographic data. Below is a list of our primary instruments.

Single Crystal X-Ray Diffractometers:

Rigaku XtaLAB Synergy S Single Source Diffractometer

Rigaku XtaLAB Synergy S Dual Source Diffractometer

Powder X-Ray Diffractometers:

· Panalytical Empyrean Powder X-Ray Diffractometer

· Panalytical Aeris Powder X-Ray Diffractometer

Contact
[email protected]

Address
Bayliss Building (M310)
Level 4, Room 4.51 Bayliss Building (access via Fairway Entrance 4)
The University of Western Australia
Crawley (Perth) Campus
35 Stirling Highway
Perth WA 6009
Australia
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Software Carpentry provides basic courses for computing on their website.

Training videos and courses are also provided by Pawsey Supercomputing Centre and can be found at their website. 

We provide several training courses for UWA researchers to help them use HPC services for their projects. If you would like a dedicated training course to be run for your group or research area, please contact the UWA HPC Team to discuss this.

The UWA HPC team can be contacted by emailing [email protected] or using the UWA IT Servicenow Portal.