XRD laboratory: XRD analysis of industrial mineral deposits

Mineral deposits can damage equipment, reduce heat transfer, disrupt manufacturing processes, or compromise product quality. An XRD analysis identifies the crystalline phases present in a deposit and distinguishes, depending on the sample, crystallized salts, oxides, hydroxides, carbonates, sulfates, silicates, or corrosion products. This characterization is a useful step in investigating formation mechanisms and defining relevant corrective actions.

Filab’s laboratory examines deposits collected from pipelines, heat exchangers, reactors, tanks, filters, pumps, valves and fittings, and metal parts. The analysis can help characterize scale, mineral buildup, corrosion residues, or deposits formed during the transport and treatment of fluids.

Filab’s laboratory report presents the crystalline phases identified in the sample, together with any limitations related to the composition, heterogeneity, or low crystallinity of the deposit. The results provide an initial mineralogical map of the material analyzed.

Whenever possible, collect a sufficient quantity of material while avoiding contamination from the substrate or unclean tools. Keep fractions collected from distinct areas in separate containers, clearly identifying each sample. For highly localized deposits, Filab’s laboratory will work with you to determine the most appropriate analytical strategy.

The XRD laboratory at Filab supports industrial companies in characterizing deposits collected from networks, tanks, heat exchangers, filters, metal parts, or process surfaces. The analysis is prepared according to the nature, quantity, and heterogeneity of the sample. The diffractograms obtained are used to compare the detected phases with crystallographic databases and establish an interpretation that can be directly applied to your industrial context. For a broader approach, consult our industrial deposit analysis laboratory.

The industrial mineral deposit analysis also covers powders, dried sludges, particles, precipitates, and solid residues from manufacturing. When the morphology or location of the constituents needs to be studied as a complement, Filab’s laboratory can recommend complementary approaches such as the TEM analysis laboratory.

The interpretation takes into account the information provided about the sampling point, materials in contact, fluids, temperature, pressure, and operating conditions. An XRD analysis can be combined with other techniques to examine chemical elements, amorphous fractions, or the local organization of the deposit.

Indicating the deposit location, when it appeared, its appearance, the materials involved, and the known process parameters improves the interpretation of the results. The analysis can be supplemented by microscopy and microanalysis techniques to link the deposit’s composition to its structure.

Contact the Filab laboratory to describe the deposit, its industrial environment, and your objective: identifying a mineral phase, comparing samples, investigating a failure, or verifying the effect of a corrective action. Provide sampling information and samples so feasibility can be assessed. You will then receive a suitable analytical proposal and can use the results to guide your technical decisions.