Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for selecting (solution) conditions to introduce an analyte guest compound into a crystalline polynuclear metal complex. The selected (solution) conditions can be used in a method for introducing an analyte guest compound into a crystalline polynuclear metal complex to form a crystal structure analysis sample. The molecular structure of the analyte guest compound can be determined by X-ray crystallography using the crystal structure analysis sample obtained with such method.

Abstract: Described herein is a tool holder for small objects. A tool and tool holder as described herein improve the flexibility and ability to manipulate small objects (such as for example crystal used in X-ray crystallography) in a confined space.

Abstract: A sample holder (3) for performing X-ray analysis on a crystalline sample (11) comprises a mounting support with a first end that can be attached to a goniometer head, whereby the crystalline sample (11) can be attached to the mounting support at a distance to the first end. The sample holder (3) further comprises a holder base at the first end of the mounting support with means for mounting the holder base to the goniometer head, whereby the holder base is configured to fit into a well (2) of a well plate (1). The holder base comprises a ferromagnetic material for mounting the holder base to a magnetic base element at or within the goniometer head. The mounting support comprises a tube preferably made of glass into which the crystalline sample (11) can be inserted. The sample holder (3) can also comprise a base disk (14) that provides for a lid for a well (2) of the well plate (1) after insertion of the sample holder (3) into the well (2).