X-ray absorption spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction data for molybdenum minerals and compounds

Area of Science:

• Mineralogy
• Materials Science
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Molybdenum (Mo) minerals are crucial in geological and environmental studies.
• Standardized reference data for Mo phases are essential for accurate analysis.
• Synchrotron-based techniques offer high-resolution characterization of mineral samples.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive reference dataset of X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) data for molybdenum minerals and compounds.
• To support the identification and characterization of Mo phases in geological and environmental research.
• To make high-quality spectral and diffraction data publicly accessible.

Main Methods:

• Collected Mo K- and L_III-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) data.
• Acquired X-ray diffraction (XRD) data for 15 Mo minerals and compounds.
• Utilized synchrotron radiation at the Canadian Light Source for analysis.
• Performed XAS in fluorescence, total electron yield, and transmission modes.
• Collected XRD data using an area detector and integrated to form line scans.

Main Results:

• Generated detailed Mo K-edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) and L_III-edge X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectra.
• Provided tabulated XAS data and graphical representations of spectra, k³ weighted oscillatory functions, and Fourier-transforms.
• Tabulated and graphically presented XRD data over a 0-40 °2Θ range.
• The dataset includes data for both rare and common Mo phases.

Conclusions:

• The presented dataset serves as a valuable reference for researchers analyzing molybdenum-bearing materials.
• This work facilitates accurate interpretation of XAS and XRD data in diverse scientific fields.
• The availability of this reference data enhances the reliability of Mo phase identification and quantification.