CRISTAL-ITE: a single-crystal X-ray diffractometer scale model for scientific dissemination

Abstract

This article presents the design and manufacture of an automated scale model of a four-circle single-crystal X-ray diffractometer that can be used for scientific dissemination. The purpose of this device is to reach out to the wider public and students to introduce them in an entertaining way to one of the laboratory apparatuses to which they do not usually have access, to talk to them about crystallography in the broadest sense, to develop concepts in various fields of science and technology, and to initiate interest and discussions. The main technical aspects of the project are described, with the expectation that such an approach could be useful to anyone involved in scientific dissemination and could be developed for other laboratory equipment and other disciplines. This kind of device can also be the subject of scientific and technological projects in close collaboration with educational institutions.

Teaching and Education highlighted

“…The first issue of 2022 presented CRISTAL-ITE: a singlecrystal X-ray diffractometer scale model for scientific dissemination (Giorgi & Berchadsky, 2022). With hands-on access to modern diffractometers, whether X-ray or neutron, generally impossible owing to radiation-protection concerns, such models allow students and the general public to get up close and personal with a tool that is essential in much of our research.…”