Echidna and Wombat

Echidna (high-resolution powder diffractometer)
The first diffraction pattern on Echidna was taken in December 2006, with comprehensive hot commissioning beginning in February 2007. Initial measurements were performed at a 90° takeoff angle with the Ge<115>, with more recent results at 130°. Two Germanium monochromators will be available: Ge<115> (single reflection only) and Ge <335> (multiple reflections available).

The results below show initial (right-hand scale) measurements from an Al₂O₃ standard at a 90° takeoff angle, which is the poorest resolution position on the instrument, compared with data taken at HIFAR?s high-resolution powder diffractometer HRPD (left-hand scale).

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Wombat (high-intensity powder diffractometer)
On the 26th February, Wombat collected its first diffraction pattern:

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The instrument (see photo below with some of the team who worked bringing Wombat on-line) is currently being hot commissioned in pursuit of its operating licence. Early indications are that Wombat will achieve its design specifications, with near flawless performance from the detector (built by Brookhaven National Lab., USA) and excellent flux at the monochromator position.

In initial measurements with the instrument configured similarly to MRPD (medium-resolution powder diffractometer) on HIFAR, a standard MgO sample produced 100,000 counts per second into the Bragg peaks, which the detector handled with ease. A 25 mg test sample is also proving to be no challenge to the instrument.