In the realm of energy research, advancements in analytical tools can significantly impact our understanding of materials and processes. A team of researchers from the INFN National Laboratories of Frascati, led by Simone Manti and including Alberto Clozza, Gabriel Moskal, Kristian Piscicchia, Diana Sirghi, Florin Sirghi, Catalina Curceanu, and Alessandro Scordo, has been making strides in this area with their development of the VOXES Von Hamos X-ray spectrometer.
The VOXES spectrometer is designed for high-resolution laboratory X-ray spectroscopy in the 5-20 keV range. It employs curved mosaic crystals and motorized positioning stages to perform wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WD-XRF) with sub-10 eV tunable resolution. This capability is particularly useful for studying extended and dilute samples, which are common in various energy-related materials and processes.
Recent developments have enhanced the versatility of VOXES. The team has integrated an energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) line based on a silicon pin-diode detector. This addition enables flux monitoring and allows for simultaneous ED and WD measurements, providing a more comprehensive analysis of samples. Additionally, a dedicated liquid-sample holder has been introduced, expanding the range of sample types that can be analyzed. The team has also developed a Y-shaped support geometry, which is crucial for switching to a transmission layout and provides mechanical compatibility with laboratory X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), which is now under implementation.
These upgrades strengthen VOXES’s role as a table-top platform for laboratory X-ray spectroscopy. The enhanced capabilities of VOXES can be particularly beneficial for the energy sector. For instance, it can be used to study the chemical states and local structures of elements in energy materials, such as catalysts, batteries, and solar cells. This information can provide insights into the performance and durability of these materials, aiding in the development of more efficient and sustainable energy technologies.
The research was published in the Journal of Synchrotron Radiation, a publication known for its focus on advances in synchrotron radiation instrumentation and techniques. The developments in VOXES represent a significant step forward in laboratory X-ray spectroscopy, offering new possibilities for energy research and other fields.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.