XRD in Geology

X-ray diffraction (XRD) is one of the most widely used analytical techniques in geology and industry, but it is also one of the most misunderstood. Too often, XRD results are treated as definitive, with little consideration for how the data was generated, what assumptions were made, or how reliable the results truly are. In reality, XRD is not a black box.

The quality of the output depends heavily on sample preparation, analytical conditions, and interpretation methods. It is not uncommon for the same sample analyzed by two different laboratories to produce significantly different results. This course is designed for industry professionals who use XRD data but are not specialists in the technique. It provides a practical, decision-focused understanding of how XRD works, to build the ability to critically evaluate and confidently use XRD datasets, and how to confidently interpret results in real-world applications.

01-01 – What is XRD and Why it Matters
01-02 – Basic Principles – How XRD Works
01-03 – Anatomy of an XRD Pattern
01-04 – What XRD Can and Cannot Do – Key Limitations
01-05 – Applications of XRD Technique

02-01 – Sample Preparation – The Underestimated Variable
02-02 – Bulk vs Clay Data
02-03 – Clay Expandability Assessment
02-04 – Key Factors Affecting Data Quality

03-01 – Common Types of Error in XRD
03-02 – What Good Data Looks Like
03-03 – Consequences of Bad XRD Workflow
03-04 – Special Considerations for Clays

04-01 – What is in a Good XRD Report
04-02 – Trusting XRD Data – Red Flags in XRD Reports
04-03 – XRD–XRF Mutual QC Workflow
04-04 – Understanding Uncertainty

05-01 – Good vs. Bad Dataset Comparison
05-02 – Clay Misinterpretation Case Study
05-03 – Quantification Pitfalls Case Study
05-04 – Troubleshooting Old XRD Data

06-01 – How to Request XRD Analysis
06-02 – Quick QC Checklist
06-03 – Common Mistakes to Avoid
06-04 – Final Summary

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