Crystal Annealing edit
Crystal annealing is a process that may increase the diffraction quality of the crystals. This is applicable especially when the X-ray diffraction data is collected at cryo conditions. See Harp et al., 1999[1] for more details on the methods
By blocking the cryo stream for a few seconds, the mounted crystal is given a heat shock at room temperature. Oftentimes, expired credit/debit cards are used for this purpose. After a few seconds of heat shock, cryo stream is restored. There have been many instances where this process improved the diffraction quality.
It has to be noted that this process may also lead to loss of crystal, hence it is advisable to try only when the user has plenty of crystals for the experiment.
- ^ Harp.; et al. (1999). "Macromolecular crystal annealing: evaluation of techniques and variables". Acta Crystallographica Section D. 55 (7): 1329. doi:10.1107/S0907444999005442.
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