The quantitative phase analysis of clay minerals by X-ray diffraction: modern aspects of industrial routine control

Abstract

AbstractThe method described uses external standard mixtures, both natural and artificial. Variations in degree of structural order between standard and analyte mineral are taken into account. ‘Amorphous’ materials in standard mixtures are simulated by alkali-boron-silicon glasses. Variations in response of the X-ray equipment with time are assessed by running a standard multiphase mixture. Strict control is exercised on particle orientation, and thermal treatments are used to separate overlapping reflections in the low-2θ region.