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Cryogenic high-resolution X-ray spectrometers for SR-XRF and microanalysis
M Frank1, C A Mears, S E Labov
1Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, PO Box 808, L-418, Livermore, CA 94551, USA.
Journal of Synchrotron Radiation
|July 21, 2004
Summary
Superconducting tunnel junction (STJ) detectors offer superior energy resolution for soft X-rays compared to semiconductor detectors. This advancement shows promise for X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and microanalysis applications.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Materials Science
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Superconducting tunnel junction (STJ) detectors offer potential for high-resolution X-ray detection.
- Traditional semiconductor detectors have limitations in energy resolution for soft X-rays.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the performance of a cryogenically cooled STJ detector in an SR-XRF experiment.
- To assess the energy resolution and count rate capabilities of STJ detectors for X-ray analysis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a 141 x 141 micro m Nb-Al-Al(2)O(3)-Al-Nb STJ detector.
- Conducted experiments using synchrotron radiation-induced X-ray fluorescence (SR-XRF).
- Measured fluorescence X-rays from samples containing transition metals and low-Z elements.
Main Results:
- Achieved a Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM) energy resolution of 6-15 eV for X-rays between 180-1100 eV.
- Demonstrated STJ detectors can operate at high count rates, comparable to semiconductor detectors.
- Obtained excellent energy resolution for soft X-ray detection.
Conclusions:
- STJ detectors provide significantly better energy resolution for soft X-rays.
- STJ detectors are a promising technology for X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and microanalysis.
- Future applications in XRF and microanalysis are expected with STJ detector advancements.