Multi-analyser detector (MAD) for high-resolution and high-energy powder X-ray diffraction

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Synchrotron Radiation

Background:

• High-resolution powder diffraction requires high photon energies for advanced material analysis.
• In situ and in operando experiments present unique challenges for detector systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel multi-analyser detector (MAD) for high-energy powder diffraction.
• To enable precise structural analysis of materials using high photon energies (60 keV).

Main Methods:

• Development of a multi-analyser detector (MAD) for the P02.1 beamline at PETRA III (DESY).
• Implementation of an individually adjustable analyser-crystal setup with piezo stepper motors for ten channels.
• Performance characterization using standard materials and demonstration experiments.

Main Results:

• The MAD exhibits a low, flat background and a high signal-to-noise ratio.
• Successful determination of the crystal structure of a complex strontium niobate titanate and strontium niobate zirconate material.
• Demonstration of in situ stroboscopic analysis of a highly absorbing piezoceramic under an applied electric field.

Conclusions:

• The developed MAD system effectively supports high-resolution powder diffraction at high photon energies.
• The detector advances the capabilities for sophisticated structural characterization in materials science.
• The MAD is suitable for complex in situ and in operando investigations.