Geology and Exploration

X-ray study of geological formations, natural and synthesized crystals, and crime scene materials, is used in mining, oil exploration, materials science, and forensic applications to obtain scientific data. X-ray diffraction (XRD) is widely used to study inorganic compounds in various industrial and scientific settings. 2-D and 3-D imaging of geological formations can determine conditions for oil bearing formations, land fill suitability, and other structural applications. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) can identify trace elements from unknown samples collected at crime scenes.