Hosted by the Henry Royce Institute, The University of Manchester.
Overview
This course will provide an introduction to energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis for alloys.
The content will introduce the concepts for the generation of X-rays for alloy analysis and EDS techniques on bulk samples. Participants will cover experimental procedures, quantification methods, sample preparation and analysis artefacts. The course aims to develop understanding and guidance for practical experimentation to ensure the collection of high-quality EDS data.
It will also provide an overview of the state-of-the-art facilities hosted by Royce at The University of Manchester, and other kit located with Royce partners. Routes to accessing Royce EDS facilities will also be highlighted.
Tickets will be on sale for £30.
Audience
Any researcher or industrialist looking to perform EDS analyses in their research, especially those who are new to the technique (e.g., new PhD students). However, anyone at any stage of their career is welcome and likely to learn something with respect to SEM-based EDS.
Aims
- Introduce the characteristics of X-rays and their generation in materials.
- Introduce the EDS technique on bulk samples (hardware, qualitative and quantitative analyses).
- Review current state-of-the-art capabilities in EDS (including showcasing of Royce kit).
- Provide practical experience, guidance and tips to enable users to collect high quality EDS data.
Learning outcomes
- An understanding of the fundamentals of X-ray production in materials and the workings of the EDS technique (including relative strengths and limitations).
- An appreciation of state-of-the-art and Royce capabilities with respect to EDS.
- Improved comprehension of how EDS can be applied effectively in their own research area (including qualitative and quantitative analyses, sample preparation requirements and common artefact recognition).
- Awareness of where to find further information on the use of this and additional techniques.
Programme
| 09:30 | Arrival for 10:00 start | Refreshments provided |
| 10:00 – 10:15 | Welcome and Introduction | The Royce Training Team
Ed Pickering Lewis Hughes |
| 10:15 – 11:15 | Morning session 1 (The characteristics of X-Rays and their production in bulk samples) | Lewis Hughes |
| 11:15 – 11:30 | Short comfort break | |
| 11:30 – 12:45 | Morning session 2 (EDS hardware, qualitative and quantitative analyses) | Lewis Hughes |
| 12:45 – 13:45 | Lunch + networking | Lunch provided |
| 13:45 – 14:45 | Afternoon session 1 (Practical examples, limitations and sample considerations) | Lewis Hughes |
| 14:45 – 15:00 | Short comfort break/Walk to MECD | Refreshments |
| 15:00 – 16:00 | Afternoon session 2 (Practical experience in the labs using the Tescan Mira 3 LC and FEI/TS Magellan 400 XHR SEMs) | Lewis Hughes |
| 16:00 – 16:15 | Finish | Ed Pickering |
Organisers
- Dr Andrea Izquierdo Ruiz – Henry Royce Institute
- Ed Pickering – The University of Manchester
- Lewis Hughes – The University of Manchester
Registration for this event will open soon.
November 10 2025
