This project involves the acquisition of a Siemens X-Ray Diffractometer system and associated equipment to complete the development of a state-of-the-art facility in x-ray diffraction and electron optical methods which are non-destructive techniques commonly used in the characterization of structure, physical state, stress, and texture of materials. This project will significantly enhance the materials analysis capabilities of the undergraduate laboratory. Experiments have been developed which highlight basic principles such as phase diagram determination of alloys, phase characterization of superconducting oxides, texture development, and analysis of cold worked and annealed metals, phase analysis of corroded materials and corrosion by-products, amorphous materials, polymers and composites, and laser melted metals. The equipment will be used by a total of 1,465 students per year. The laboratory will be the only such facility in the entire campus and will also serve as a regional center for faculty and students from smaller colleges and junior colleges.
