In recent years, several profile-shape functions have been successfully use
d in X-ray powder diffraction studies. Here, a new profile function for app
roximating the X-ray diffraction peaks is proposed. This model, based on a
Gaussian function multiplied by a correction factor in the form of a series
expansion in Hermite polynomials, can be employed in the cases where there
are peak asymmetries. The function has been tested by using samples of alp
ha-Al2O3 and 9-YSZ (yttria-stabilized zirconia), yielding generally satisfa
ctory results.