2024 Rigaku Thin Film XRD Forum: Innovation and Expertise in Materials Science

From September 3 to 5, the 2024 Rigaku Thin Film XRD Forum took place at our European headquarters in Neu-Isenburg, Germany. The event attracted around 60 participants from across Europe and beyond for a noteworthy three-day gathering.

With a diverse gathering of top experts from academia and industry, this forum provided a unique platform for groundbreaking research presentations, hands-on experience and quality networking. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with leaders from prestigious organizations and institutions, share insights, and advance the field of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thin film technology.

Expert Led Presentations: Cutting-edge research

A major highlight of the forum was the series of insightful presentations by distinguished speakers in the fields of advanced X-ray scattering, thin film analysis, nanostructure research, and defect characterization.

Dr. Davide Altamura discussed multiscale characterization of nano-/bio-materials, while Dr. Edith Bellet-Amalric explored thin film and nanostructure analysis. Dr. Thomas Cornélius presented on Cu/Nb nanolaminates and Prof. Vaclav Holy investigated phase transformations in titanium alloys. Dr. Vladimir Kaganer and Dr. Lutz Kirste focused on dislocation analysis and defect imaging, respectively. Dr. Anna Eden Kossoy discussed optical metamaterials, ultrathin films and spinels, while Dr. Christian Kranert provided insights into semiconductor wafer analysis. In addition, Dr. Carsten Richter introduced laboratory-based X-ray diffraction imaging, Dr. David Rogers covered oxide epiwafer quality control, Dr. Olaf Soltwedel discussed reflectometry at liquid interfaces, and Dr. Ludovice Largeau offered expertise in nanoscale materials analysis.

We at Rigaku were honored to have these distinguished researchers share their knowledge and expertise with us. Their sessions fostered meaningful discussions and sparked new ideas, keeping attendees engaged throughout the day.

Hands-on learning and real-world applications

The forum went beyond theory to include hands-on learning opportunities. Attendees used Rigaku's state-of-the-art SmartLab diffractometers to analyze their own samples under expert guidance. These sessions provided invaluable hands-on experience with the latest XRD technologies and demonstrated how Rigaku instruments are advancing materials analysis.

Exclusive lab tours offered an in-depth look at Rigaku's latest developments and showed how our advanced instruments are designed for real-world applications in various industries. This combination of hands-on workshops and expert demonstrations made for a highly interactive and engaging experience.

Networking and Collaboration in a Relaxed Environment

The Forum also provided many networking opportunities. Catered breaks, including a popular Japanese food truck on the first day, allowed attendees to continue their discussions over delicious food.

A special highlight was the evening reception on the second day at a local Italian restaurant. Attendees relaxed and networked in an informal setting, followed by a fun-filled bowling event. This evening created a memorable atmosphere and further strengthened the sense of community among attendees.

Take-home messages and lasting impact

The 2024 Rigaku Thin Film XRD Forum was more than just a conference; it was a hub of learning, collaboration, and innovation. Key takeaways include:

• A comprehensive understanding of the latest techniques in X-ray diffraction, with a focus on thin films, nanostructures, and defect characterization.
• Hands-on experience with Rigaku's state-of-the-art diffractometers, reinforcing the practical applications of XRD technology.
• New contacts with experts from academia and industry, opening the door to future collaborations and joint research ventures.
• Insights into how XRD is shaping the future of materials science, energy technologies and the semiconductor industry.

We hope everyone found the forum as rewarding and impactful as we did. Thank you to all the speakers, attendees and organizers who made this event a success.

Mark your calendars for the next XRD Forum in 2026, and stay tuned for updates on similar events!