An extraction algorithm for core-level excitations in non-resonant inelastic X-ray scattering spectra

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Atomic and Molecular Physics

Background:

• Non-resonant inelastic X-ray scattering (NIXS) probes site-selective electronic structures.
• Analyzing NIXS spectra is challenging due to complex background signals from electron excitations.
• Accurate background subtraction is crucial for studying shallow absorption edges, especially in liquids and under extreme conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present an algorithm for effective background subtraction in NIXS spectra.
• To address the momentum-transfer dependence of background signals in NIXS analysis.
• To demonstrate the algorithm's utility for analyzing core electron excitations.

Main Methods:

• Developed a novel algorithm for NIXS spectral analysis.
• Applied the algorithm to subtract background signals from valence and core electron excitations.
• Validated the algorithm using silicon and silicon dioxide samples.

Main Results:

• The algorithm successfully extracts target absorption edges from complex backgrounds.
• Demonstrated effective background subtraction across a wide range of momentum transfers.
• The method is applicable to various materials, including liquids and samples under extreme conditions.

Conclusions:

• The presented algorithm significantly enhances the analysis of NIXS data.
• It provides a reliable method for isolating site-selective electronic structure information.
• This advancement facilitates deeper understanding of materials under diverse conditions.