Crystallisation is an iterative process where conditions are optimised until diffraction quality crystals are obtained. At Diamond we have explored microfocus experiments and the feasibility of in situ diffraction experiments. This has highlighted the potential value of a microfocus beamline dedicated to automated in situ diffraction experiments : (1) no manipulation of individual crystals, thus preserving the crystal integrity, (2) immediate feedback on the diffraction, crystal quality and, in many cases, unit-cell parameters, space group, (3) full automation with high reliability, a route for data collection from crystals that consistently lose diffraction capability when conventionally harvested, or else are hazardous and may not be harvested for safety reasons. With this in mind, a new fully integrated, highly automated and remotely operated microfocus beamline is currently under construction at DLS. This new beamline will replace the existing MX beamline I02 by the end of 2016. This undulator beamline will have two monochromator options : a Si(111) DCM (ΔE/E 10-4, >1012 photon/s) and Ru/B4C DMM (ΔE/E 10-2, >1014 photon/s), and a KB mirror pair for focusing. The endstation will be equipped with highresolution sample viewing, SBS-format vertical goniometry operating at 4°C and 20°C, and a high-performance detector. Plate storage and imaging for >1000 plates at 4°C and 20°C will be an integrated part of the beamline and directly linked to the endstation with fully automated plate delivery. A web-based user interface will provide database access to sample/crystallization/diffraction/analysis information.

Contact : ibs.seminaires@ibs.fr