Testing of X-ray Optics for Synchrotron Studies using a Laboratory Microfocus X-ray Source

Abstract

This paper considers techniques for testing X-ray optics in laboratory conditions before its direct use at synchrotron radiation sources. The example of the ‘SynchrotronLike’ complex demonstrates the capabilities of modern laboratory X-ray optical equipment for studying the optical and functional properties of refractive X-ray lenses, transfocators, and diamond monochromators. Moreover, the paper describes ways of realizing synchrotron coherent experimental techniques such as microradian X-ray diffraction and X-ray reflecto-interferometry in laboratory conditions. Applying the high-brightness Excillum MetalJet microfocus X-ray tube with a liquid anode enables experiments with several optical transformations and provides higher spatial coherence of the radiation compared to classical laboratory sources. The high coherence of the radiation allows for observing interference on thin films and test X-ray interferometers. The presented results demonstrate the capabilities of modern laboratory X-ray optical equipment in solving problems that do not require high temporal and energy resolution. It significantly saves resources spent on research based on synchrotron radiation sources when a lot of measurements and tests for optimization of X-ray optics fabrication technology are required.