Development of the Nanobeam X-ray Experiments instrument at PAL-XFEL

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• X-ray Physics
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Advanced X-ray techniques are crucial for nanoscale material analysis.
• The Pohang Accelerator Laboratory X-ray Free Electron Laser (PAL-XFEL) provides high-intensity X-ray sources.
• Development of specialized instruments is needed to harness the full potential of FELs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and install a Nanobeam X-ray Experiments (NXE) instrument at the PAL-XFEL.
• To enable sophisticated X-ray experiments utilizing nanofocused X-ray beams.
• To detail the instrument's optics, capabilities, and performance for user accessibility.

Main Methods:

• Installation of a diagnostic system, focusing optics (Kirkpatrick-Baez mirrors), an X-ray diffraction endstation, and a femtosecond laser delivery system.
• Utilizing Kirkpatrick-Baez mirrors to achieve nanofocusing of the X-ray beam.
• Commissioning experiments to validate instrument performance.

Main Results:

• Successful development and installation of the NXE instrument.
• Achieved X-ray beam focusing to 390 nm × 230 nm at 9.5 keV using Kirkpatrick-Baez mirrors.
• Instrument commissioned in December 2021/April 2022 and available for users since January 2023.

Conclusions:

• The NXE instrument is operational and ready for advanced nanoscale X-ray experiments.
• The instrument enhances research capabilities at the PAL-XFEL.
• Detailed documentation is provided for researchers interested in utilizing the NXE instrument.