Instrumentation

In the endstation, we have a set of removeable sample holders which give us flexibility for different kinds of samples and experiments.

These sit on our stages which have a movement of 1.5mm from centre in each direction (x, y and z).

Our XRF detector sits behind the sample, with four beryllium windows collecting signal in backscatter as well as XANES spectra.

Post sample, there is an optical microscope for finding your region of interest on your sample, that is removed before imaging with the X-ray beam.

Once we are ready to image using X-rays, we can remove the microscope and put in one of our transmission detectors.

For ptychography and differential phase contrast imaging, we use the 'Merlin' detector.

For X-ray diffraction and SAXS (under development) we have an 'Excalibur' detector.

Also available in the hutch is a house nitrogen connection.

For experiments in-situ using liquid or gas phases, we have a in-situ cell available. Liquid or gas is flowed in to a cell created between two silicon chips, with a silicon nitride window in each chip for visualisation. The flow medium can be under constant flow, or flowed in and then left to react. Looped XRF, XANES or XRD scans can then be set up to follow a reaction within the cell.

To discuss how the cell might work for your experiment, please contact one of the beamline scientists.