Submitting Samples
To begin the process for sample submission, complete the order form for a single crystal diffraction. The requested information is important to provide a completed and accurate molecular structure determination. Determination of the molecular structure requires sufficient prior knowledge of the structure. The initial structure solution requires a guess at which elements are present in the structure.
The sample and completed form must be submitted to Dr. Bacsa or the center's service instructor at 163 Atwood.
Samples submitted will be examined by microscopy before any data collection. The submitter will be notified if the crystals are not suitable. A preliminary figure of the molecular structure can be obtained within a few days. The completed structure report, ready for publication, will be available in one or two weeks.
Crystal Quality
The quality of the crystal is the most important factor for determining the quality of the final structure. Time should be spent growing good-quality crystals. Please refer to the links below for information on growing good-quality crystals.
- Staples, Richard J. (2024). Getting Crystals Your Crystallographer Will Treasure. X-Ray Crystallography Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University. https://www2.chemistry.msu.edu/Facilities/Crystallography/downloads/xtalgrow.pdf
Sample Sensitivity
Insensitivity to air, oxygen, or water
The sample may be submitted in a small, closed vial preferably with a small amount of the crystallizing solvent. Many solvents are incorporated into the crystal lattice and held by weaker intermolecular bonds or forces. Crystals might lose solvent molecules with the decomposition of the crystal lattice. Solvates with ether, ethyl acetate, and acetone are often unstable while co-crystals with pure aromatic solvents and DCM have been stable.
Sensitivity to temperature, oxygen, or moisture
Consult with Dr. Bacsa as to the special steps that must be taken to ensure the safe handling of the sample.