Characterization of high spatial resolution lithium fluoride X-ray detectors

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Photonics
• Detector Physics

Background:

• Lithium fluoride (LiF) crystals are utilized as detectors in various scientific applications.
• Understanding their response to X-rays is crucial for accurate measurements in high-energy physics and materials characterization.
• Previous studies have indicated potential variations in detector response based on experimental conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively characterize the response of LiF crystal detectors to monochromatic X-rays in the multi-kilo-electron-volt range.
• To investigate the influence of X-ray dose, photon energy, and energy flux on detector performance.
• To evaluate the spatial resolution and assess the suitability of LiF detectors for current X-ray free-electron laser and laser facilities.

Main Methods:

• Monochromatic X-rays in the multi-kilo-electron-volt range were used to irradiate LiF crystal detectors.
• Detector response was measured as a function of X-ray dose and incident energy flux.
• Spatial resolution was determined through detailed imaging and analysis.
• A photometric study was conducted to assess detector feasibility for advanced light sources.

Main Results:

• The response of LiF detectors to X-ray dose was found to be independent of photon energy, with no saturation observed.
• Detector response increased for lower energy photons due to variations in X-ray attenuation lengths within the crystal.
• Spatial resolution was measured to be between 1.19-1.36 μm and was independent of incident photon energy.
• Minor discrepancies between different confocal microscopes highlight the need for absolute calibration.

Conclusions:

• LiF crystal detectors offer a stable and energy-independent response to X-ray dose, making them reliable for quantitative measurements.
• The observed energy dependence of response related to attenuation length requires consideration in experimental design.
• The measured spatial resolution and overall performance suggest LiF detectors are viable for use at state-of-the-art X-ray free-electron laser and laser facilities worldwide.