Shown below is a closer view inside the shielding. X-rays are produced when a 35 keV electron beam strikes a copper target. Data collection times vary depending on the nature of the data required. For example, a routine XRD spectrum can be collected in about 40 minutes, while one suitable for a Rietveld refinement might require 16 hours. Older instruments simply record the output file to a strip chart recorder.
Modern instruments can store and manipulate the pattern and have many powerful features.
Sample Preparation Sample requirements for powder XRD vary with the nature of the material. A typical sample holder is a 2 mm thick aluminum plate with a 20 mm square hole in the center. About 10-20 mg of the material of interest is then spread on the tape and smoothed flat. The tape is primarily amorphous and so does not generally interfere with the pattern being collected. One way of doing this is to tape or glue a microscope slide to the back side of the sample holder.