X-ray zoom lens allows for energy scans in X-ray microscopy

Area of Science:

• X-ray microscopy
• Optics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Energy scans in X-ray microscopy offer stability and chemical information near absorption edges.
• Traditional methods require sample or detector motion, which is challenging for high-stability microscopy.
• Full Field Diffraction X-ray Microscopy (FFDXM) and X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure (XANES) microscopy benefit from energy-dependent phenomena.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and develop a compound refractive X-ray zoom lens for stable energy scans.
• To enable quantitative analysis in FFDXM by maintaining constant working distance and magnification during energy scans.
• To demonstrate the lens's suitability for 11 keV energy scans near the Germanium K-alpha edge.

Main Methods:

• A compound refractive X-ray zoom lens was designed and fabricated.
• The lens utilizes switchable zoom lens fingers to adapt its composition.
• Characterization of the fabricated lens was performed to assess its performance.

Main Results:

• The zoom lens successfully maintained constant working distance and magnification across energy scans.
• The lens was demonstrated for use at 11 keV near the Ge K-alpha edge.
• The fabricated lens was characterized and found suitable for the intended application.

Conclusions:

• The developed compound refractive X-ray zoom lens is effective for energy scans in X-ray microscopy.
• This innovation simplifies quantitative analysis in FFDXM by eliminating the need for mechanical adjustments.
• The lens design facilitates enhanced chemical and structural analysis using X-ray microscopy techniques.