X-ray diffractometer for the investigation of temperature- and magnetic field-induced structural phase transitions

Abstract

This article reports the development and characterization of a laboratory-based high-resolution X-ray powder diffractometer equipped with a 5.5 T magnet and closed-cycle helium cryostat that is primarily designed for the investigation of magneto-structural phase transitions. Unique features of the diffractometer include the position-sensitive detector, allowing the collection of an entire diffraction pattern at once, and the high energy resolution with Mo Kα 1 radiation. The ability to utilize a lower energy resolution but higher photon flux by switching to an X-ray mirror monochromator makes it a versatile setup for a variety of compounds. In this contribution, details of the design and performance of the instrument are presented along with its specifications.