Robert E. Schwerzel

Laser-EXAFS: Fast Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy with a Single Pulse of Laser-Produced X-rays

The extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectrum of aluminum has been measured with a nanosecond pulse of soft x-rays generated by a laser-produced plasma. This technique provides a practical alternative to synchrotorn radiation for the acquisition of EXAFS data. It also provides a unique capability for the analysis of molecular structure in highly transient chemical species.

Laser‐EXAFS: Laboratory EXAFS with a nanosecond pulse of laser‐produced X‐rays

Laser‐produced x‐rays are a promising alternative to synchrotron radiation for the measurement of EXAFS spectra. Experiments to date indicate that the K‐edge EXAFS spectra of elements with atomic numbers up to about Z = 20, and L‐edge spectra of elements with atomic numbers up to about Z = 40, can be obtained with a single nanosecond pulse of x‐rays emitted by a laser‐produced plasma. The technique shows promise of providing single‐shot EXAFS spectra for the remaining elements as well, with the use of advanced laser systems that are available today. The x‐ray pulse can be synchronized easily with an external optical or electrical perturbation of the sample, thereby providing a unique capability for recording EXAFS spectra of highly transient species having lifetimes the order of a nanosecond.