High-resolution electron-multi-ion coincidence set-up for gas-phase experiments in the tender and hard X-ray range

Area of Science:

• Atomic and Molecular Physics
• X-ray Spectroscopy
• Chemical Physics

Background:

• High-energy X-ray experiments require advanced detection systems.
• Studying Auger cascades and Coulomb explosions demands high-resolution coincidence measurements.
• Existing techniques face challenges in detecting high-energy electrons and analyzing fast ions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and characterize the MUSTACHE (MUlti-STep photofragmentation studies by Auger electron-ion Coincidences using High Energy photons) setup.
• To demonstrate the system's capability for high-resolution electron-ion coincidence spectroscopy in the hard X-ray regime.
• To enable detailed investigations of deep-core ionization, Auger cascades, and Coulomb explosion dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Integration of a high-resolution hemispherical electron analyzer with a Wiley-McLaren-type ion time-of-flight spectrometer.
• Coincidence measurements of Auger electrons and high-energy photoelectrons up to 5 keV.
• High-resolution ion mass and momentum analysis for light and fast ions.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated energy-resolved photoelectron-ion coincidences and momentum-resolved multi-ion coincidences.
• Successful characterization of atomic (argon) and molecular (nitrogen, carbon disulfide) systems.
• Validation of the system's ability to study hard-X-ray-induced Auger cascades and Coulomb explosions.

Conclusions:

• The MUSTACHE setup is a powerful tool for high-resolution electron-ion coincidence spectroscopy.
• It extends advanced coincidence techniques into the hard X-ray regime.
• It offers unprecedented opportunities for studying high-energy X-ray-induced phenomena in isolated species.