SERDANG, August 2025 — The Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ION2) successfully hosted the XRD Workshop for Mineralogy and Geology: Principles, Practice & Application, in collaboration with Rigaku Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. and RGS Corporation Sdn. Bhd. Held at the ION2 facility, the full-day workshop attracted 39 participants from a diverse range of institutions, including Agensi Nuklear Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Universiti Malaya (UM) and several others.

The workshop was designed to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of X-ray Diffraction (XRD) technology and its crucial role in the fields of geology, mineralogy, and mining. With the increasing demand for precise mineral identification and characterization, XRD has become an essential non-destructive analytical technique. It delivers accurate insights into crystallographic structures, phase compositions, and material purity.

The technical program commenced with an insightful session on the fundamental principles of XRD, delivered by Dr. Muhammad Firdaus Omar from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). This was followed by a presentation from Mr. Takahiro Kuzumaki of Rigaku Asia Pacific highlighting the capabilities of High-Resolution X-Ray Diffraction (HRXRD), including its use in analyzing strain, composition, and thickness of epitaxial layers, as well as the crystalline phases and texture of polycrystalline films.

Following the presentations, participants engaged in a hands-on demonstration led by Mr. Kuzumaki and RGS Corporation expert Dr. Low Yiin Jian. This practical session offered a unique opportunity to observe real-time XRD applications and learn operational techniques for analyzing various natural materials, enhancing their understanding of modern XRD systems.

Held from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the workshop served as a valuable knowledge-sharing platform for researchers, industry experts, and academics. The event fostered the exchange of insights, promoted innovation, and strengthened collaborative ties within the fields of mineralogy and geology.

Reported by,
Roslina Abdul Rashid
Science Officer, ION2

Date of Input: 03/09/2025 | Updated: 03/09/2025 | roslina_ar