An X-ray microsource based system for crystal screening and beamline development during synchrotron shutdown periods

Area of Science:

• Structural Biology
• X-ray Crystallography
• Synchrotron Radiation

Background:

• Crystallographic end-stations require substantial investment in equipment and software.
• Equipment often becomes idle during annual maintenance shutdowns.
• Utilizing existing hardware and software during shutdowns is crucial for efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To install and evaluate a sealed-tube X-ray microsource for continuous crystal screening during synchrotron shutdowns.
• To assess the microsource's compatibility with existing beamline components.
• To determine the system's capacity for unattended crystal screening.

Main Methods:

• Installed a sealed-tube X-ray microsource in beamline 9-2 at Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory.
• Utilized a multi-layer optic for flux and spectral purity.
• Integrated the microsource with the Stanford Automated Mounting (SAM) system for automated crystal screening.
• Implemented a screening protocol of two 10-minute exposures with a 90° phi rotation.

Main Results:

• The microsource system was installed with minimal modification to existing beamline components.
• The system enabled crystal screening to continue during SSRL shutdowns, screening over 8200 crystals.
• Capable of screening up to 400 crystals per week and running unattended for up to 4 days.
• Facilitated ongoing beamline development by enabling tests requiring X-ray beam during non-user periods.

Conclusions:

• The X-ray microsource is an effective solution for maintaining productivity during synchrotron maintenance periods.
• This system enhances the utilization of valuable synchrotron resources.
• The microsource supports both crystal screening and beamline development, increasing overall operational efficiency.