Rietveld Method Short Course
May 8-10, 2000 -- Atlanta, GA
The Rietveld method is a powerful tool for the extraction of structural information from powder diffraction patterns,
quantitative phase analysis, and obtaining microstructural information. It is valuable to people working on a diverse
range of problems. In the last 15 years, the Rietveld Method has played a crucial role in almost every high profile
area of new materials research. It was extensively used for the study of high-temperature ("Hi-Tc") superconductors,
it has played a key role in developing the solid state chemistry of the fullerenes, and it is currently being used to study
colossal magnetoresistance materials, thermoelectrics and negative thermal expansion ceramics. Additionally, it has
also been used for thousands of structural studies of metal oxide catalysts, zeolites, clays, minerals, battery materials,
pharmaceuticals, biological materials, and even polymers, using both X-ray and neutron powder diffraction data.
Quantitative phase analysis via the Rietveld Method is now an especially important ancillary procedure, as it can offer
superior results to the more traditional methods. It is of use for environmental problems, and analyses for the minerals
processing and the petrochemicals industries. The determination of crystallite-size and microstrain parameters is also
a growing field.
This three-day short course will deal with the principles and techniques of Rietveld analysis. In addition to the
provision of a solid theoretical underpinning, students will obtain hands-on experience with data analysis along with
expert guidance on problem solving and avoidance. A selection of data sets for the hands-on sessions are provided,
but students are encouraged to bring their own problem data sets so that they can receive expert advice that is
tailored to their own needs. Both the well-grounded beginner and the moderately experienced user should find the
course valuable. A rudimentary familiarity with PC use is essential.
For more information, visit the Georgia Tech Continuing Education Site
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