X-Ray Diffraction Facility
The X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) Facility in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry provides advanced tools for determining the atomic and molecular structure of crystalline materials. X-ray diffraction techniques allow researchers to analyze the arrangement of atoms within molecules and solids, making the facility an essential resource for research in chemistry, materials science and structural biology.
The facility supports faculty, students and collaborators across Auburn University by providing instrumentation and expertise for structural characterization and crystallographic analysis
Instrumentation
The facility houses modern diffraction systems used for both single-crystal and powder diffraction studies.
Single-Crystal X-Ray Diffractometer
The facility includes a Bruker D8 Venture single-crystal X-ray diffractometer, equipped with an area detector and low-temperature cryostream device. This system enables high-precision structural determination of crystalline molecules and materials.
Capabilities include:
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Structural determination of small molecules
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Analysis of macromolecules such as proteins and protein–ligand complexes
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Dual X-ray sources (Cu Kα and Mo Kα)
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High-resolution detection with shutterless data acquisition
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Low-temperature data collection from approximately 100 K to 300 K
These capabilities allow researchers to determine detailed atomic structures for compounds synthesized in organic, inorganic and biological chemistry laboratories.
Powder X-Ray Diffractometer
The facility also houses a Rigaku SmartLab powder X-ray diffractometer, which is used to analyze the structure and composition of crystalline materials and thin films.
This system supports studies including:
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Phase identification of crystalline materials
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Analysis of thin films and solid materials
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Temperature-dependent diffraction studies from approximately 15 °C to 1000 °C
Powder diffraction methods are widely used in materials chemistry, catalysis and solid-state chemistry research.
Research Applications
The X-Ray Diffraction Facility supports research across a wide range of disciplines, including:
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Organic and inorganic molecular structure determination
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Structural biology and protein crystallography
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Materials science and solid-state chemistry
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Catalysis and molecular synthesis
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Thin-film and crystalline materials characterization
These techniques allow researchers to visualize atomic structures and better understand the chemical and physical properties of materials.
Facility Support and Collaboration
The facility is directed by Dr. P. Raj Pokkuluri, who provides expertise in crystallization, structure determination and structural analysis. Researchers may receive assistance with crystal preparation, diffraction experiments and interpretation of structural data.
Additional faculty collaborators support powder diffraction analysis and materials characterization.
Access & Fees
Use of the X-Ray Diffraction Facility is available to researchers across Auburn University. A nominal usage fee may apply to support instrument operation and maintenance. Researchers interested in using the facility should contact the facility director for scheduling and access information.
Contact
Dr. P. Raj Pokkuluri
Director, X-Ray Diffraction Facility
Dr. Byron Farnum
Chemistry & Biochemistry
Dr. Ryan Comes
Physics
