A new experimental scheme for nuclear γ-resonance time-domain interferometry

Area of Science:

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Nuclear resonant scattering of synchrotron radiation by Mössbauer nuclei is a key technique for studying slow dynamics at the interatomic length scale.
• Existing time-domain interferometry (TDI) setups can be sensitive to external vibrations, limiting measurement accuracy and duration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel TDI scheme for enhanced efficiency and reduced sensitivity to vibrations.
• To enable more accurate measurements of slow dynamics over longer timescales.

Main Methods:

• Development of a new TDI scheme utilizing a nuclear absorber with a two-line energy spectrum combined with a single-line spectrum.
• Characterization of the experimental setup, including absorbers at rest to minimize external vibrations.
• Detailed discussion of the model for describing beating patterns in a three-line spectrum system.

Main Results:

• The new TDI scheme significantly reduces issues from external vibrations as absorbers are stationary, eliminating the need for a velocity transducer.
• Beating patterns can be measured with satisfactory statistical accuracy and contrast up to 350 ns.
• Successful demonstration of the scheme's capabilities using the prototypical glass-former ortho-terphenyl.

Conclusions:

• The developed TDI scheme offers a more robust and efficient method for studying slow dynamics at the interatomic scale.
• This technique opens new possibilities for investigating the dynamics of materials, particularly in condensed matter systems.
• The reduced sensitivity to vibrations allows for higher precision measurements over extended time ranges.