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Phase recovery and lensless imaging by iterative methods in optical, X-ray and electron diffraction.
J C H Spence1, U Weierstall, M Howells
1Department of Physics and Astronomy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-1504, USA.
Summary
Phase is fundamental to light and electron interferometry. New imaging techniques reveal atomic processes and material fields, enabling lensless imaging for various particles.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Quantum Mechanics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Thomas Young's work revived light wave theory, establishing the concept of phase.
- Phase is crucial in matter-wave interferometry, utilizing field-emission electron microscopes.
- Wave-particle duality is demonstrated through electron interferometry and holography.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review historical developments in electron interferometry and holography.
- To discuss phase encoding and retrieval methods for imaging.
- To explore prospects for lensless imaging with various particles.
Main Methods:
- Experimental demonstration of Young's fringes with electron beams.
- Application of phase-contrast imaging and electron holography.
- Utilizing the hybrid input-output iterative algorithm for phase retrieval and imaging.
Main Results:
- Subnanometre resolution achieved in phase-contrast imaging.
- Electron holography routinely maps nanoscale fields in materials.
- Successful image reconstruction from diffraction patterns for electrons and visible light.
Conclusions:
- Phase retrieval and lensless imaging offer new insights into atomic processes.
- Enables imaging for particles lacking lenses, like neutrons and X-rays.
- Potential for reduced sample damage in biological imaging.