Zero-background holders

Misture ST, Chatfield L, Snyder RL. Accurate powder using zero background holders. Powder Diff 1994 9 172-179. 

Figure 11 Common types of rectangular and circular specimen holders (a) zero background, (b) top-loaded, and (c) back-loaded configurations...

Samples are usually placed in a sample holder that uses a depression or cavity to mount the sample. These mounts are commonly made of aluminum, bronze, Bakelite, glass, or Lucitc. Cavity mounts arc most commonly side loaded or back loaded. A frosted glass surface, ceramic, or cardboard is placed over the front, and the sample is carefully added via the open side or back. Top-loading ntoiinis are also available as are special mounts known us zero background mounts. Alternatively, a specimen may be mixed with a suitable non crystalline binder and molded into an appropriate shape. 

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