Mapping Disorder at the Atomic Scale in 3D

What is it about?

We compared two powerful methods to study atomic disorder: 3D Delta pair distribution function (3D-ΔPDF) and atomic resolution holography (ARH). Each highlights different details of local structure: The 3D-ΔPDF provides an accurate view of correlated disorder, while ARH can add highly element-specific information. Together they give a much clearer picture of the atomic order in 3D.

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Photo by Thibaut Tiberghien on Unsplash

Photo by Thibaut Tiberghien on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Understanding how atoms are arranged, especially when they are not perfectly ordered, is key to designing better materials for electronics, energy, and more. This study shows how two leading methods, 3D-ΔPDF and ARH, can be combined to give both precise and chemically specific insights into disorder. Their complementary strengths mean scientists can now tackle complicated structural problems, from simple binary to high-entropy alloys, complex crystals, and beyond, with greater accuracy.