9601780 McGinn A versatile state-of-the-art powder x-ray diffraction instrument consisting of 1) an x-ray generator, 2) a high precision multi-configuration goniometer, 3) a solid state detector 4) a position sensitive detector, 5) thin film attachments and 6) a high temperature furnace assembly, for multidisciplinary use will be purchased. This equipment is intended to support research performed by 12 faculty from the Colleges of Science and Engineering at the University of Notre Dame. The following capabilities will be made possible by the new system: 1) high temperature, 2) position sensitive detection for rapid data acquisition for studies of reaction kinetics, metastable phase formations, 3) a solid state detector for improved energy resolution and detection efficiency, 4) thin film capability for structural analysis of various film geometries 5) improved powder diffraction sensitivity, resolution and analysis, supported by a computer work station software for modeling and using cutting edge analytical algorithms. Whether it be structural characterization of heterostructures, or the kinetics of chemical reactions, the proposed equipment is crucial for the continuation of the research and teaching efforts in Structural Characterization a t the University of Notre Dame. The acquisition will have significant impact on the research programs of the four principle investigators. Equally important is that the user base of the X-ray characterization facility and the number of trained users will quickly grow (as will result from this funding. ***
