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

Abstract

We report Mo K- and LIII-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) data collected for 15 molybdenum minerals and compounds sourced from museum collections, mineral dealers, and chemical suppliers. The samples were finely ground and analyzed at the Canadian Light Source synchrotron (Saskatoon, Canada). The LIII-edge XAS data were collected in fluorescence and total electron yield mode, while the K-edge XAS data were collected in transmission and fluorescence modes. Molybdenum LIII-edge spectra cover the X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) region and Mo K-edge spectra cover the extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) region. Tabulated XAS data are provided to support analysis of XAS data obtained for geological or environmental research. Furthermore, Mo K-edge EXAFS and LIII-edge XANES spectra, the k3 weighted oscillatory χ(k) functions, and the Fourier-transforms in χ(R) of these K-edge data are presented graphically. Corresponding XRD data were collected as two-dimensional images against an area detector and integrated to form line scans. The data were collected at a wavelength of 0.68866 Å (18 keV) and is tabulated and presented graphically over a 0-40 °2Θ range. This dataset is intended to be used as reference material for a variety of rare and common Mo phases.