High-throughput Serial Tomography using an Automated Sample-changing Robot

Area of Science:

• Synchrotron X-ray imaging
• Materials science
• High-throughput experimentation

Background:

• Manual sample exchange and alignment are time-consuming in X-ray imaging experiments.
• Current methods limit experimental throughput and efficient use of beamline time.
• Automation is crucial for maximizing data collection efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a workflow for automated data collection using a robotic arm for sample exchange.
• To enhance efficiency and throughput for synchrotron X-ray imaging experiments.
• To enable remote and unattended data collection.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a robotic arm for sample exchange at the Diamond Light Source (DLS) I13-2 beamline.
• Development of specialized sample holders and trays for robotic handling.
• Integration of automated sample centering and tomography reconstruction pipeline.

Main Results:

• Achieved a 4-10 times increase in experimental throughput compared to manual procedures.
• Enabled fully unattended and remote data collection capabilities.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of high-throughput serial tomography (3D) and imaging (2D).

Conclusions:

• The automated workflow significantly improves data collection efficiency in synchrotron X-ray imaging.
• Robotic sample exchange and automated centering enable unprecedented experimental throughput and remote operation.
• This system offers a unique and innovative solution for advanced materials characterization.