The Design of X-Ray Powder Cameras

The x-ray diffraction tool in most common use is the powder camera, yet it is usually ill-designed. This paper presents constructive criticisms of current powder camera design, and describes briefly a series of instruments having desirable features. Among the issues discussed are: adjustments, recovery of adjustments, desirable diameters, important recording ranges, film arrangements, fitting the film to cylindrical form, design of direct beam systems, elimination of air-scatter, specimen attachment and adjustment, and scanning. The following special instruments are also discussed: high temperature cameras, large spacing cameras, and film cutters and punches.