New Device for Obtaining X-Ray Diffraction Patterns from Substances Exposed to High Pressure

Abstract

A device is described for obtaining powder diffraction patterns of thin sheets pressed between opposing diamond pistons. The pressure, initially applied by a small auxiliary laboratory press, is clamped onto the sample by a lock-nut. The whole unit is designed to replace the sample mount of a standard x-ray diffraction unit. Sample patterns taken on two of the high pressure modifications of bismuth are exhibited.