Spectrometer for X-ray emission experiments at FERMI free-electron-laser

Area of Science:

• Atomic and Molecular Physics
• Materials Science
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Photon-in/photon-out experiments, particularly X-ray emission spectroscopy (XES), are crucial for understanding electronic structures.
• Existing spectrometers may lack portability or the required energy range for advanced light sources.
• Free-electron lasers (FELs) offer unique capabilities for XES but require specialized instrumentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, portable, and compact photon spectrometer designed for X-ray emission spectroscopy.
• To enable experiments utilizing the full emission energy range of the FERMI FEL stages (FEL1 and FEL2).
• To demonstrate the instrument's adaptability for various experimental setups at synchrotron and FEL beamlines.

Main Methods:

• The spectrometer employs an optical design with two interchangeable spherical varied-lined-spaced gratings.
• A CCD detector is utilized for photon detection.
• The instrument features adaptable input sections, allowing for configurations with or without an entrance slit and an additional relay mirror.

Main Results:

• The spectrometer operates effectively within the 25-800 eV energy range.
• Its compact and portable design facilitates mounting in diverse end-stations.
• The instrument's versatility allows for variable positioning relative to the target area.
• Successful characterization was performed at the Gas Phase beamline at ELETTRA Synchrotron.

Conclusions:

• The developed photon spectrometer is a versatile and portable tool for X-ray emission spectroscopy.
• It is well-suited for experiments at advanced light sources like free-electron lasers.
• The instrument's design and performance characteristics make it valuable for a range of spectroscopic investigations.