short communications
A new compact cell for in situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction studies of adsorption or catalysis reactions has been designed to enable high performance whilst minimizing difficulties in use. It includes a system for simple insertion and alignment of capillary samples and an original miniaturized furnace providing excellent temperature homogeneity along the sample (temperature gradient less than 1 K over a 6 mm zone at 530 K). The efficiency of this setup is illustrated by in situ characterization of a zeolite (SrX) at four hydration levels.