A new experimental setup for the time resolved x-ray diffraction study of self-propagating high-temperature synthesis

A new experimental setup for time resolved x-ray diffraction is described. Designed for the LURE H10 beamline and its 4 (+2) circles goniometer, it allows simultaneous recordings of x-ray patterns with a rate of 30 patterns per second, a maximum 2θ range of 120°, infrared thermography at the same rate, and thermocouples readings at a frequency of up to 3×104 Hz. Preliminary results obtained using this setup are presented, showing how it is possible to analyze a solid–solid or solid-liquid reaction. As an example, an in situ study of phase transformation and temperature evolution during the self-sustaining synthesis of an FeAl intermetallic compound starting from a mechanically activated mixture is investigated. The versatility of the setup was proved and could even be enhanced by the design of new sample holders, thus expanding its area of use at low cost.