Developing a long-duration Zn K- source for x-ray scattering experiments

Area of Science:

• Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
• Plasma Physics
• Materials Science

Background:

• High spectral resolution X-ray sources are crucial for small-angle X-ray scattering.
• Current He-α X-ray sources, while long-duration, suffer from broad spectral bandwidth due to multiple charge states and lines.
• Existing sources limit precision in scattering experiments requiring narrow spectral features.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a long-duration K-α X-ray source with narrow spectral bandwidth.
• To improve spectral resolution for X-ray scattering measurements.
• To combine the duration of He-α sources with the bandwidth of cold K-α emission.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Omega laser facility to irradiate a Germanium (Ge) foil.
• Generated Ge He-α emission to pump Zinc (Zn) K-α emission from a nearby Zn layer.
• Characterized the spectral bandwidth of the resulting Zn K-α emission.

Main Results:

• Successfully demonstrated a long-duration Zn K-α X-ray source at 8.6 keV.
• Achieved a 60% reduction in spectral bandwidth compared to standard Zn He-α sources.
• The developed source is suitable for high-precision X-ray scattering measurements.

Conclusions:

• The novel technique effectively combines long duration and narrow spectral bandwidth in K-α X-ray sources.
• This advancement significantly enhances measurement precision for scattering experiments, particularly those involving small inelastic shifts.
• The developed source offers a superior alternative for applications demanding high spectral resolution.