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Empyrean

The intelligent diffractometer

  • Multi-purpose X-ray diffractometer
  • Measure all sample types
  • New MultiCore Optics increases your measurement options
  • No manual intervention required

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Overview

With the 3rd generation Empyrean, Malvern Panalytical has now redefined the concept of a multipurpose diffractometer: our newly designed MultiCore Optics enable the largest variety of measurements without any manual intervention. 

Empyrean has the unique ability to measure all sample types - from powders to thin films, from nanomaterials to solid objects - on a single instrument. 

The world of materials science is constantly changing, and the life of a high-performance diffractometer is much longer than the typical horizon of any research project. With Empyrean, you are ready for anything the future holds.

Om_logo.png   Works with OmniTrust: Malvern Panalytical's compliance solution for the regulated environment

Why Empyrean?

Empyrean is the only platform that does it all, delivering the best data quality on every sample types. It covers the largest set of X-ray diffraction, scattering and imaging applications in one single instrument. 

Empyrean not only meets the high expectations of scientists and XRD experts today, but will continue to do so as research themes evolve Empyrean is ideal for teaching purposes, thanks to the large doors that open completely, allowing access to the system to several people. 

The wide doors are also perfect for performing measurements in demanding R&D environments in various industries.

Features

Highest data quality on every sample

Praised by scientists for its performance, Empyrean allows them to prepare for synchrotron beam time in the best possible way. 

The unrivalled collection of sample stages and optical components for Empyrean allows applications to be done in various ways: from ‘simple’ by just adding a few slits and analysis software to a standard geometry, to top performance using dedicated optics, sources and detectors. 

This is ideal for a multipurpose laboratory: if the need for a certain application increases, data quality and throughput time can be improved by adding dedicated modules.

Multipurpose and future proof

“The only thing constant in life is change”. This holds especially in a research environment, where the analytical needs often change with a redirection of the research program. 

New applications are easily added to an Empyrean system, making it the perfect answer for anything the future holds. 

New and exciting applications are constantly developed on this platform, keeping our customers on the cutting edge of technology.

Hybrid PIXcel technologies

Malvern Panalytical has always been at the forefront of hybrid detector technology. We were the first company to introduce combined 0D and 1D functionality in silicon strip detectors and to expand the onboard flexibility to 0D-1D-2D-3D. 

The small pixel size, zero background and the high dynamic range of our hybrid detectors (PIXcel3D and GaliPIX3D) bring with them a revolution in the way XRD applications are treated. No longer is it necessary to maximize intensity or 2D detector size. 

With a choice of optics and operational radii, you can optimize the configuration to really suit your purpose.

MultiCore optics

The newly developed MultiCore Optics featuring the iCore and dCore, greatly simplify the usage of a multipurpose system, bringing automation to a level never been seen before. 

When switching between measurements the iCore and dCore take care of the work and do not need any human intervention.

Download brochure

PreFIX

PreFIX  is our proven proprietary concept that stands for pre-aligned fast interchangeable X-ray modules. 

Thanks PreFIX your diffraction system becomes flexible, fast and future proof. The PreFIX mounting method of optics and stages enables the diffractometer to be reconfigured thanks to a reproducible positioning in three dimensions with microns precision. 

This allows users to switch between different applications in a matter of minutes, making the Empyrean a real multipurpose diffractometer.

Good laboratory practice

Empyrean with its alignment-free PreFIX modules and measurement and analysis automation possibilities supports anyone who has good laboratory practice (GLP) in mind. 

In addition, every aspect of the Empyrean package, from the hardware to dedicated analysis solutions, comes with extensive tutorials for novice users yet offers access to all functions for experts.

Customized solutions for X-ray diffraction

The Empyrean is a true multi-purpose instrument, designed to support a wide range of applications. Yet, in the market place we often meet scientists and analysts working with our equipment who would like to extend the possibilities even further, according to their own ideas for their own research. 

At Malvern Panalytical, we like to support our users in their materials research. We bring them the right solution for complex analytical problems or cost-effective production processes. 

If you have concepts for new sample holders and stages, optical modules or analytical techniques, discuss your requirements with your local Malvern Panalytical sales representative or submit your request if you need a dedicated solution for your diffraction research. 

Together we can work on advanced solutions for new requirements, keeping pace with the latest developments in the world of science and research.

Mining is backbone of the economy and it is very complicated particularly when it is about natural things, which is completely unknown and non homogenous material. Then the expertise comes into the picture and this equipment is the best tool for geoscientific community. I am very happy with the Empyrean.

Basant Rath — NMDC R&D Centre

Specification

X-ray generation

X-ray generator 4 kW (max 60 kV, max 100 mA)
Line/point focus switch Easy and quick, without tooling

Goniometer

Range Maximum usable range (depending on accessories): -111 < 2θ < 168°
Smallest addressable increment 0.0001°
Reproducibility < 0.0002°
2θ linearity Equal or better than ± 0.01°
Maximum speed 15 deg/s
Resolution 0.026° FWHM on LaB₆

Sample stages

Ambient sample stages
  • Reflection-transmission spinner with optional 45 position sample changer
  • Capillary spinner
  • Micro-diffraction spinner
  • 3-axes (chi,phi,z) cradle with optional manual x,y platform
  • 5-axes (chi,phi,x,y,z) cradle
  • Programmable XYZ stage
  • High-throughput stage
  • Multipurpose sample stage
  • Pre-aligned capillary holder stage
  • Flow cell for in situ crystallization research
  • Modular sample stages (x, y, z) both manual and programmable
  • ScatterX⁷⁸ (vacuum chamber for SAXS/WAXS) with optional non ambient attachment
  • Computed tomography stage
Non-ambient sample stages
  • Anton Paar HTK1200N (oven); HTK16N and HTK2000 (strip heater)
  • Anton Paar domed stage DHS1100 (hot) and DCS500 (cold and hot)
  • Anton Paar TTK600 (low-temperature chamber)
  • Anton Paar CHC plus+ (cryo and humidity) and MHC-trans (humidity transmission)
  • Anton Paar XRK900 (reaction) and HPC 900 (high pressure)
  • Oxford PheniX cryostat and Oxford Cryostream Plus
  • Flow cell for in situ crystallization research

Detectors

Point detectors
Proportional counter (20 x 24 mm)
Scintillation detector (30 mm Ø)
Strip detectors PIXcel1D, 256 strips of 55 μm ‘all live’, compatible with Cr to Cu radiation
Area detectors PIXcel3D, 256 x 256 pixels of 55 μm, compatible with Cr to Cu radiation
GaliPIX3D, 501 x 465 pixels of 60 μm, compatible with Co to Ag radiation (with 100% efficiency)

Cabinet

Dimensions
1400 (w) × 1162 (d) × 1947 (h) mm.
 
The instrument is on wheels. It can pass a 989 mm door opening. For transportation the minimum achievable instrument width is 867 mm.
Weight 1150 kg
Internal dimensions 1360 (w) × 1100 (h) mm, allowing access to the experimental area by at least four people simultaneously (ideal for teaching)
Radiation levels Radiation level less than 1 microSievert per hour, measured at 10 cm distance, determined with a Mo source @ 60 kV, 50 mA. No power restrictions with all anode types
External cooling water supply 4 - 6 liters/min, pressure up to 8 bar, temperature 15 to 35 °C > dew point
Compressed air supply House line, compressor or air bottle; 2-5 bar (0.2 - 0.5 MPa)
Power Supply Single phase 210 – 230 V (with ± 10% grid variations); 50/60 Hz
Power consumption Max. 4.6 kVA without controllers for optional equipment

Accessories

Detectors

1Der

Ultimate versatility and data clarity in 1D detection

The 1Der is the latest edition to a portfolio of leading solid-state detectors for X-ray diffraction (XRD) applications. Together with an unrivaled suite of optical configurations, the 1Der integrates seamlessly into the XRD platforms to combine ease of use with ultimate flexibility and data clarity for all 0D and 1D applications.

The 1Der is compatible with all X-ray sources that are used on the Empyrean and Aeris.

PIXcel1D

Medipix technology as a dedicated strip detector

With the PIXcel1D detector you have a dedicated strip detector for 0D and 1D applications. You can measure up to 255 times faster than with a traditional point detector, without compromising data quality. With no need for cooling water, liquid nitrogen flow, counting gas or time-consuming calibrations it is a cost-effective solution.

With an unrivalled resolution and dynamic range, the PIXcel1D can be used with all of our diffractometers.

PIXcel3D

The first detector to bring 0D-1D-2D and 3D data to your diffractometer

The PIXcel3D is a unique 2D solid-state hybrid pixel detector. Each pixel is 55 microns x 55 microns and the detector array is 256 x 256 pixels. The detector, now based on Medipix3 technology, brings unrivalled signal to noise with its point spread function of one pixel and multiple energy discrimination levels.

GaliPIX³ᴰ

Extending the range of 2D solid-state pixel detectors

With pixel dimensions of 60 microns x 60 microns and overall sensor dimensions of 30.06 x 24.16 mm, GaliPIX3D is the newest and largest 2D hybrid pixel detector for XRD. The high-quality CdTe sensor provides unrivalled stopping power for X-rays and affords close to 100% efficiency even for the highest energy radiation, like Ag and Mo. As with the PIXcel3D this detector is designed to provide state-of-the-art 2D images, data quality and flexibility. The design of the 2D photon counting detector array allows users to switch seamlessly between 1D and 2D modes and to collect frames suitable for 3D processing in computed tomography.

X-ray tubes

Empyrean Tube

The high-performance X-ray tube

The Empyrean Tube is the successor to Malvern Panalytical’s well-proven X’Pert Tube. Building on the company’s 25 year track record in ceramic tube technology, the Empyrean tube has been designed and optimized for Malvern Panalytical's Empyrean diffractometers. In addition, this state-of-the-art diffraction tube is fully compatible with all Malvern Panalytical’s existing X'Pert PRO, X’Pert Powder, CubiX PRO, CubiX FAST, CubiX³ and X'Pert³ diffractometer systems.

Non-ambient chambers

Non-ambient chambers

We offer a wide range of non-ambient solutions placing ‘in situ’ in front of nearly every application supported on our XRD instruments.

More information
Non-ambient chambers

Software

X-ray diffraction software

Our XRD software packages are designed to extract every bit of information from your material.

More information
X-ray diffraction software

Academia

Get the best data for your publications with Empyrean; train and inspire your students. Acquisition of comprehensive information about a material is the key for successful research. 

Empyrean will give you the highest data quality, letting you see the finest details of your precious samples by performing non-destructive, cutting-edge characterization studies.

Energy storage and batteries

Get a better understanding of your battery materials. Analysis of battery material using X-ray diffraction provides component phase purity and the crystallite size of anode and cathode compounds. 

Empyrean, equipped with the GaliPIX3D detector, also allows in situ and in operando measurements of long-lasting cells using hard X-radiation.

Pharmaceuticals

Accomplish advanced characterization of your pharmaceuticals. X-ray powder diffraction, a rapid non-destructive analytical technique, is widely applied in drug discovery, formulation, stability testing and final product quality control. 

The proven and comprehensive method is available with 21 CFR Part 11 Audit Trail support. Empyrean can also perform in situ non- ambient analysis without manual intervention and high-throughput measurements on well-plates.

Specialty chemicals

Assess crystal structure or structure-property relationship in crystalline and semi-crystalline compounds. Specialty chemicals, also referred to as effect or performance chemicals, are often custom-manufactured materials with unique properties or performance effects to materials or formulation. 

Empyrean can be used for a detailed phase identification and understanding of these valuable compounds.

Forensics

Reveal the smallest traces of evidence. The use of non-destructive analytical instrumentation plays a key role in today’s forensic laboratories where full chain of custody and data control is desired across all stages of the process. 

Empyrean can provide information that is vital in criminal investigations and forensic science.

Metals

Determine retained austenite, stress and texture during metal production. 

Process control and quality control in the metal industry - whether it concerns primary metals or special products - need rapid and accurate chemical analysis as well as microstructural characterization of metals and alloys. Empyrean can take care of these needs.

Nanomaterials

Reveal dimensions and structures in all types of nanomaterials. 

X-ray scattering and diffraction are powerful and versatile nanometrology tools for the determination of nanoscale dimensions, shapes and structures, as well as the analysis of crystalline phases and local atomic structures. Empyrean delivers most accurate scattering data.

Thin film metrology

Get access to critical parameters of thin films ranging from ultra-thin single layers to complex multilayer stacks. X-ray diffraction and X-ray reflectivity can provide non-destructive, reliable and accurate data for the characterization of thin films. 

Empyrean enables the determination of ultra-fast reciprocal space maps, X-ray reflectivity and rocking curve analysis.

Mining is backbone of the economy and it is very complicated particularly when it is about natural things, which is completely unknown and non homogenous material. Then the expertise comes into the picture and this equipment is the best tool for geoscientific community. I am very happy with the Empyrean.

Basant Rath — NMDC R&D Centre

Smart Manager

Unleash the potential of your data

Until now, instrument data has too often been stuck in manual records, spreadsheets or site-specific servers. By connecting your Empyrean to our Smart Manager and continually analyzing instrument data in the cloud, you can unleash its full potential. 

This is just one of our digital solutions that are part of Malvern Panalytical's Smart Manager.

User manuals

Software downloads

23 June 2025

1.7a

OmniTrust software update v1.7a

1.7a

20 July 2023

1.60

OmniAccess   

  • Flexible/configurable roles in Empyrean and Aeris (now aligns with Zetasizer) 
  • Summary of roles/permissions 
  • Default roles for instrument applications 
  • Support for complex domains 
  • Wizard for initial set up and massively improved UI to improve configuration/set up 

OmniTrail  

  • Record Audit trail events viewable in OmniTrail. 
  • Show/compare authorization files 

More information can be found in the Release and Installation Notes.

1.60

16 December 2021

1.40

OmniAccess   

  • Flexible/configurable roles in Empyrean and Aeris (now aligns with Zetasizer) 
  • Summary of roles/permissions 
  • Default roles for instrument applications 
  • Support for complex domains 
  • Wizard for initial set up and massively improved UI to improve configuration/set up 

OmniTrail  

  • Record Audit trail events viewable in OmniTrail. 
  • Show/compare authorization files 

More information can be found in the Release and Installation Notes.

1.40

Support

Solutions to maximize the return on your investment

To assure that your instrument remains in top condition and performs on the highest level, Malvern Panalytical offers a wide range of services. Our expertise and support services assure an optimal functioning of your instrument.

Support

Service for a lifetime

  • Phone and remote support
  • Preventive maintenance and checkups
  • Flexible Customer Care Agreements
  • Performance certificates
  • Hardware and software upgrades
  • Local and global support

Expertise

Adding value to your processes 

  • Sample preparation development/optimization
  • Analytical methodologies 
  • Turnkey solutions for XRD 
  • Operations via IQ/OQ/PQ, quality assurance (GLP, ISO17025) or round robins/inter laboratory studies
  • Consultancy services

Training and education

  • Training on-site or at our competence centers
  • Broad range of basic and advanced courses on products, applications and software
The new standard in X-ray analysis platforms.

The new standard in X-ray analysis platforms.

A true multi-purpose X-ray platform like no other, with the unique ability to measure all sample types. Be ready for anything the future holds.

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