Thermo Scientific ARL X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer

The Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ X’TRA Companion is a θ/θ Bragg–Brentano benchtop X-ray diffractometer designed for routine process and quality control applications. The system combines high analytical performance with robust mechanical construction and intuitive software operation.

The instrument is based on a vertical θ/θ Bragg–Brentano geometry (160 mm radius) and is suitable for qualitative and quantitative XRD analysis of polycrystalline materials. It operates at 600 W using copper or cobalt radiation, with an optional integrated water chiller available.

Thermo Scientific ARL X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer: Schema of the geometry of the θ/θ goniometer.

Fast and resolute data acquisition is enabled by a state-of-the-art solid-state pixel detector (55 × 55 µm pitch). One-click Rietveld refinement based on a fundamental parameter approach ensures robust and reproducible phase quantification. Automated result transmission to LIMS is supported.

The system is fully shielded in accordance with international X-ray safety regulations and designed for stable operation even in environments exposed to vibration.

Thermo Scientific ARL X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer

Key Features

• θ/θ Bragg–Brentano geometry (160 mm radius)
• 600 W operation (Cu or Co radiation)
• Solid-state pixel detector (55 × 55 µm pitch)
• One-click Rietveld quantification (fundamental parameter approach)
• Automated result transmission to LIMS
• Mechanical slits, Soller slits and variable beam knife for precise beam collimation
• Ultra-compact θ/θ goniometer with stepper motors and optical encoders
• Modular design with exchangeable pre-aligned sample stages
• Optional 6-position sample changer (φ 51.5 mm; optional φ 40 mm)
• Angular accuracy better than ±0.02° over full 2θ range
• Angular resolution < 0.04° FWHM (standard configuration)
• Shielded cabinet with lead glass windows, flushing lamps and safety interlocks
• Robust construction resistant to shock and vibration
• Data combination capability with XRF results

Thermo Scientific ARL X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer: An angular accuracy better than ± 0.02° over the whole 2θ range guarantees optimal instrument alignment to support accurate and reliable analysis. Test with a Si powder.Thermo Scientific ARL X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer: An angular resolution < 0.04° FWHM can be measured easily in standard configuration. Test with a LaB₆ powder.

Analysis of Cement Clinker according to ASTM C1365

A clinker sample was measured (21 x 10 min) and a Rietveld fit was carried out consecutively using a fundamental parameter approach. Comparing standard deviations calculated from the repetitive refinements with limits given by ASTM C1365 clearly shows that results are in good agreement with the norm, as determined by considering C3A total and C3S total.

The ARL X’TRA Companion XRD yields data in compliance with ASTM C1365 norm for analyzing clinker samples. The one-click Rietveld refinement based on a fundamental parameter approach is an extremely robust method with high reproducibility which yields accurate results even for C3S M1 and M3. This makes clear the ARL X’TRA Companion is the perfect solution for any process control tasks in the cement industry.

Thermo Scientific ARL X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer: Results of the 21 consecutive refinements of clinker (values in weight percent).Thermo Scientific ARL X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer: Rietveld fit of clinker (10 min acquisition).Thermo Scientific ARL X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer: Rietveld fit of clinker (29-35° 2θ).Thermo Scientific ARL X’TRA Companion X-ray Diffractometer: Measurement of clinker (55-61° 2θ). Fit for C3S M1 (purple) and C3S M3 (green) explains intensity and shape of the reflections well.