On the advantages of the use of the three-element detector system for measuring EDXRD patterns to follow the crystallisation of open-framework structures

Time-resolved energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXRD) studies, employing a new detector technology, of a range of crystallisations of open framework materials are described. We consider four distinct categories of phenomena where new information has been gained specifically from the use of the multi-element (as opposed to the single element) detector system. The systems investigated are: (a) the competitive formation of small-pore and large-pore aluminophosphates (AlPO's), and the effect of concentration of CoII in the mother liquor (precursor gel) in directing the relative amounts of AlPO-18 (AEI) and chabazite (CHA) structures that are formed; (b) the influence of both template (structure directing) molecules and synthesis time on the stabilities of the AlPO-5 (AFI) structures; (c) a study of both the rate of formation of the open framework titanosilicate (ETS-10) structure and the dissociation rate of crystalline TiO2 used in the preparation of ETS-10; and (d) tracking of the intermediate formed during the synthesis of the gallophosphate structure known as ULM-3. The advantages of using a three-element detector configuration are illustrated.