Methodology toward 3D micro X-ray fluorescence imaging using an energy dispersive charge-coupled device detector

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Geoscience
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Elemental analysis of complex samples requires advanced imaging techniques.
• Micro X-ray fluorescence (μXRF) offers elemental sensitivity but 3D capabilities are limited.
• Previous methods lacked the resolution and depth for detailed 3D elemental mapping.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a new three-dimensional micro X-ray fluorescence (3D μXRF) methodology.
• To enable high-resolution 3D elemental distribution mapping within solid samples.
• To demonstrate the technique's application in analyzing mineral inclusions in natural diamonds.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a novel 2D energy dispersive (ED) CCD detector at the Petra-III storage ring.
• Employed a horizontally focused, vertically oriented sheet beam for sample illumination.
• Acquired 2D elemental cross-sections and performed linear scans for 3D reconstruction.

Main Results:

• Successfully generated 3D elemental distribution data sets from sample cross-sections.
• Demonstrated the capability to image mineral inclusions within deep Earth diamonds.
• The method's depth penetration was primarily limited by signal self-absorption effects.

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D μXRF methodology provides a powerful new tool for elemental analysis.
• This technique offers unprecedented 3D elemental insights into complex geological samples.
• Further applications in materials science and geoscience are anticipated.