Well-considered sample preparation is an important pre-beamtime task. It has the potential to critically influence the experimental outcome and success. In summary, the small vertical beam size coupled with a small, but noticeable, beam motion demands highly uniform samples as their homogeneity is directly related to obtained data quality.

MEX1 Sample Preparation

Concentration

Optimising sample concentration for either transmission of fluorescence measurements will help you maximise data quality and consistency within your sample set.

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If movement of the sample occurs (e.g. due to vibrations), or when the beam moves over the course of a scan (it moves vertically), you will be measuring different parts of the sample. If the sample is not homogenous, spectra can be detrimentally impacted. Below are spectra from iron oxide in cellulose samples, one prepared simply by mixing, one by grinding in a mortar and pestle for 5 revolutions, and one by grinding in a mortar and pestle for 15 revolution. Clearly the longer grinding produced a more homogeneous sample and optimal spectra.

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MEX2 Sample Preparation

MEX2 can make measurements in:

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