Soft x-ray imaging spectroscopy with micrometer resolution

Abstract

Soft x-ray spectroscopy is invaluable for gaining insight into quantum materials. However, it is typically conducted in a spatially averaging way, making it blind to inhomogeneity in samples. Here, we demonstrate how we couple imaging to x-ray absorption spectroscopy and resonant inelastic x-ray scattering. Accordingly, we use a 2D detector and an off-axis Fresnel zone plate that images the sample in one spatial dimension and provides spectroscopic information in the other dimension. With our setup, we envision to enable a more detailed understanding of how the behavior of microscopic domains determines the functionality of quantum materials.

Functional Nanoscale Phase Separation and Intertwined Order in Quantum Complex Materials

“…Nanoscale phase separation (NPS) has been considered to be detrimental for hightemperature superconductivity. However, high-precision X-ray measurements in solidstate physics [1][2][3][4][5] have recently provided experimental validation for the alternative paradigm, where lattice heterogeneity from the atomic limit to the micron scale plays a key role [6][7][8][9][10][11][12]. NPS shows that intertwined and interlocked nanoscale lattice structures form heterostructures at the atomic limit [13].…”

Microstructure effects on the phase transition behavior of a prototypical quantum material

“…As a measure for the X-ray absorption, we observe oxygen K -edge fluorescence within an emission energy window of 526.5 eV ± 2.5 eV. A more detailed characterization of the experimental setup can be found in a previous publication 35 .…”

“…Spatially resolved X-ray absorption partial fluorescence yield measurements were performed with the MUSIX endstation 46 located at the soft X-ray beamline P04 47 of the synchrotron storage ring PETRA III at DESY in Hamburg. Characteristics of the setup are discussed in the reference 35 . The setup makes use of the entire bandwidth that is transmitted through the beamline monochromator.…”

Single-Crystalline Perovskite Nanowire Arrays for Stable X-ray Scintillators with Micrometer Spatial Resolution

“…This was unexpected because the thinner nanowires had a much higher surface-to-volume ratio in comparison with the thicker ones, which, in principle, should have increased surface recombination. There are several possible explanations for the increased photon yield: (1) The AAO could passivate the nanowires, instead of causing defects for nonradiative surface recombination. 48 (2) The interface could have states that are favorable, not detrimental, for the luminescence efficiency.…”

“…X-ray imaging with micrometer spatial resolution is desirable for the development of applications in physical, materials, and life sciences. 1 − 3 High spatial resolution imaging systems for absorption contrast or phase contrast commonly employ indirect detectors that use a scintillator coupled to a CCD or CMOS camera. 4 − 7 The scintillator absorbs the X-ray photons and converts them into visible light, which is then focused onto a sensor using a high-resolution objective lens.…”