Journal Description
Instruments
Instruments
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on scientific instrumentation and its related methods and theory, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, Inspec, CAPlus / SciFinder, INSPIRE, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 21.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 5.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Latest Articles
High Harmonic Generation Seeding Echo-Enabled Harmonic Generation toward a Storage Ring-Based Tender and Hard X-ray-Free Electron Laser
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020035 - 2 Jun 2024
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To align with the global trend of integrating synchrotron light source (SLS) and free electron laser (FEL) facilities on one site, in line with examples such as SPring-8 and SACLA in Japan and ELETTRA and FERMI in Italy, we actively explore FEL options
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To align with the global trend of integrating synchrotron light source (SLS) and free electron laser (FEL) facilities on one site, in line with examples such as SPring-8 and SACLA in Japan and ELETTRA and FERMI in Italy, we actively explore FEL options leveraging the ultralow-emittance electron beam of the NSLS-II upgrade. These options show promising potential for synergy with storage ring (SR) operations, thereby significantly enhancing our facility’s capabilities. Echo-enabled harmonic generation (EEHG) is well-suited to SR-based FELs, and has already been demonstrated with the capability of generating extremely narrow bandwidth as well as high brightness, realized using diffraction-limited short pulses in transverse planes and Fourier transform-limited bandwidth in the soft X-ray spectrum. However, regarding a conventional EEHG scheme, the combination of the shortest seed laser wavelength (256 nm) and highest harmonic (200) sets the short wavelength limit to λ = 1.28 nm. To further extend the short wavelength limit down to the tender and hard X-ray region, a vital option is to shorten the seed laser wavelength. Thanks to recent advances in high harmonic generation (HHG), packing 109 photons at one harmonic within a few-femtosecond pulse could turn such a novel HHG source into an ideal seeding for EEHG. Thus, compared to the cascaded EEHG, the HHG seeding option could not only lower the cost, but also free the SR space for accommodating more user beamlines. Moreover, to mitigate the SASE background noise on the sample and detector, we combine the HHG seeding EEHG with the crab cavity short pulse scheme for maximum benefit.
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Criticality of Spray Solvent Choice on the Performance of Next Generation, Spray-Based Ambient Mass Spectrometric Ionization Sources: A Case Study Based on Synthetic Cannabinoid Forensic Evidence
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Shahnaz Mukta, Ebenezer H. Bondzie, Sara E. Bell, Chase Deberry and Christopher C. Mulligan
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020034 - 1 Jun 2024
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Mass spectrometry (MS) is a highly selective and sensitive analytical tool with a myriad of applications, but such techniques are typically used in laboratory settings due to the handling and preparations that are necessary. The merging of two streams of robust research, portable
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Mass spectrometry (MS) is a highly selective and sensitive analytical tool with a myriad of applications, but such techniques are typically used in laboratory settings due to the handling and preparations that are necessary. The merging of two streams of robust research, portable MS systems and next-generation ambient ionization methods, now provides the ability to perform high-performance chemical screening in an on-site and on-demand manner, with natural applications in disciplines such as forensic science, where samples of interest are typically found in field environments (i.e., traffic stops, crime scenes, etc.). Correspondingly, investigations regarding the suitability and robustness of these methodologies when they are utilized for authentic forensic evidence processing are prudent. This work reports critical insights into the role that choice of spray solvent system plays regarding analytical performance of two spray-based ambient ionization sources, paper spray ionization (PSI) and filter cone spray ionization (FCSI), when employed for evidence types containing emerging synthetic cannabinoids. The systematic characterization studies reported herein show that the applied spray solvent can dramatically affect both spectral intensity and signal duration, and in some circumstances, yield deleterious false negative responses. Overall, acetonitrile-based systems are shown to strike a balance between analyte solubility concerns and spray ionization dynamics of the novel ion sources employed on portable MS systems.
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Open AccessArticle
Niobium as Preferential Material for Cyclotron Target Windows
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Sergio J. C. do Carmo and Francisco Alves
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020033 - 27 May 2024
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The present work promotes and validates the benefits of using niobium instead of Havar® as the material for the target windows in most routine irradiations in cyclotrons. Calculation of the material activation and measurements of the contamination of the transferred target liquids
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The present work promotes and validates the benefits of using niobium instead of Havar® as the material for the target windows in most routine irradiations in cyclotrons. Calculation of the material activation and measurements of the contamination of the transferred target liquids show major improvements with the use of niobium. Also, the data of the daily routine productions at our production center are presented, proving that Havar® is not mandatory unless large target currents and/or pressures are required.
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Open AccessArticle
Microparticle Hybrid Target Simulation for keV X-ray Sources
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Rolf Behling, Christopher Hulme, Panagiotis Tolias, Gavin Poludniowski and Mats Danielsson
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020032 - 22 May 2024
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The spatiotemporal resolution of diagnostic X-ray images obtained with rotating-anode X-ray tubes has remained limited as the development of rigid, high-performance target materials has slowed down. However, novel imaging techniques using finer detector pixels and orthovolt cancer therapy employing narrow X-ray focal spots
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The spatiotemporal resolution of diagnostic X-ray images obtained with rotating-anode X-ray tubes has remained limited as the development of rigid, high-performance target materials has slowed down. However, novel imaging techniques using finer detector pixels and orthovolt cancer therapy employing narrow X-ray focal spots demand improved output from brilliant keV X-ray sources. Since its advent in 1929, rotating-anode technology has become the greatest bottleneck to improvement. To overcome this limitation, the current authors have devised a novel X-ray generation technology based on tungsten microparticle targets. The current study investigated a hybrid solution of a stream of fast tungsten microparticles and a rotating anode to both harvest the benefits of the improved performance of the new solution and to reuse known technology. The rotating anode captures energy that may pass a partially opaque microparticle stream and thereby contributes to X-ray generation. With reference to fast-rotating anodes and a highly appreciated small focal spot of a standardized size of 0.3 for an 8° target angle (physical: 0.45 mm × 4.67 mm), we calculated a potential output gain of at least 85% for non-melting microparticles and of 124% if melting is envisioned. Microparticle charging can be remediated by electron backscattering and electron field emission. The adoption of such a solution enables substantially improved image resolution.
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Open AccessArticle
Design and Performance of a Low-Energy Gamma-Ray Trigger System for HERD
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Luis Fariña, Keerthana Lathika, Giulio Lucchetta, Monong Yu, Joan Boix, Laia Cardiel-Sas, Oscar Blanch, Manel Martinez and Javier Rico
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020031 - 4 May 2024
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The High Energy cosmic-Radiation Detection (HERD) facility has been proposed as one of the main experiments on board the Chinese space station. HERD is scheduled to be installed around 2027 and to operate for at least 10 years. Its main scientific goals are
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The High Energy cosmic-Radiation Detection (HERD) facility has been proposed as one of the main experiments on board the Chinese space station. HERD is scheduled to be installed around 2027 and to operate for at least 10 years. Its main scientific goals are the study of the cosmic ray spectrum and composition up to the PeV energy range, indirect dark matter detection, and all-sky gamma-ray observation above 100 MeV. HERD features a novel design in order to optimize its acceptance per weight, with a central 3D imaging calorimeter surrounded on top and on its four lateral sides by complementary subdetectors. A dedicated trigger, dubbed the ultra-low-energy gamma-ray (ULEG) trigger, is required to enable the detection of gamma rays down to ~100 MeV. The ULEG trigger design is based upon the search for energy deposition patterns on the tracker and the anticoincidence shield, compatible with the conversion of a gamma ray within the tracker volume and resulting in enough tracker hits to allow for a good-quality gamma-ray direction reconstruction. We describe the current status of the design of the ULEG trigger system. We also characterize its performance in detecting gamma rays as inferred from Monte Carlo studies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Space AstroParticle Physics: Frontier Technologies for Particle Measurements in Space)
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A Concept for a Multipurpose Time-of-Flight Neutron Reflectometer at Compact Neutron Sources
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Raul-Victor Erhan, Victor-Otto de Haan, Christoph Frommen, Kenneth Dahl Knudsen, Isabel Llamas-Jansa and Bjørn Christian Hauback
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020030 - 24 Apr 2024
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The design of a time-of-flight neutron reflectometer proposed for the new generation of compact neutron sources is presented. The reflectometer offers the possibility to use spin-polarized neutrons. The reflectometer design presented here takes advantage of a cold neutron source and uses neutrons with
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The design of a time-of-flight neutron reflectometer proposed for the new generation of compact neutron sources is presented. The reflectometer offers the possibility to use spin-polarized neutrons. The reflectometer design presented here takes advantage of a cold neutron source and uses neutrons with wavelengths in the range of 2–15 Å for the unpolarized mode. In general, due to tight spatial restrictions and the need to avoid moving parts inside the beam channel, a multi-channel collimator guide and reflective neutron guide are used for the first section of the instrument. This enables definition of the desired wavelength band and easy selection of one out of three different Q-resolutions. A low background for the collimator system and the reflectometer is ensured by employing a tangential beam channel and an in-channel sapphire filter. The second section is the time-of-flight (TOF) system, which uses a double-disk neutron chopper followed by polarization elements, the sample environment and the neutron detector system. Monte Carlo simulations and neutron beamline intensity measurements are presented. The design considerations are adoptable for neutron sources where space is limited and sections of the instrument are in a high-radiation environment.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 15th Workshop of the European Cyclotron Network (CYCLEUR 2023))
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Digital Miniature Cathode Ray Magnetometer
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Marcos Turqueti, Gustav Wagner, Azriel Goldschmidt and Rebecca Carney
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020029 - 24 Apr 2024
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In this study, we introduce the concept and construction of an innovative Digital Miniature Cathode Ray Magnetometer designed for the precise detection of magnetic fields. This device addresses several limitations inherent to magnetic probes such as D.C. offset, nonlinearity, temperature drift, sensor aging,
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In this study, we introduce the concept and construction of an innovative Digital Miniature Cathode Ray Magnetometer designed for the precise detection of magnetic fields. This device addresses several limitations inherent to magnetic probes such as D.C. offset, nonlinearity, temperature drift, sensor aging, and the need for frequent recalibration, while capable of operating in a wide range of magnetic fields. The core principle of this device involves the utilization of a charged particle beam as the sensitivity medium. The system leverages the interaction of an electron beam with a scintillator material, which then emits visible light that is captured by an imager. The emitted scintillation light is captured by a CMOS sensor. This sensor not only records the scintillation light but also accurately determines the position of the electron beam, providing invaluable spatial information crucial for magnetic field mapping. The key innovation lies in the combination of electron beam projection, CMOS imager scintillation-based detection, and digital image signal processing. By employing this synergy, the magnetometer achieves remarkable accuracy, sensitivity and dynamic range. The precise position registration enabled by the CMOS sensor further enhances the device’s utility in capturing complex magnetic field patterns, allowing for 2D field mapping. In this work, the optimization of the probe’s performance is tailored for applications related to the characterization of insertion devices in light sources, including undulators.
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Open AccessArticle
Drive Bunch Train for the Dielectric Trojan Horse Experiment at the Argonne Wakefield Accelerator
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Gerard Andonian, Nathan Burger, Nathan Cook, Scott Doran, Tara Hodgetts, Seongyeol Kim, Gwanghui Ha, Wanming Liu, Walter Lynn, Nathan Majernik, John Power, Alexey Pronikov, James Rosenzweig and Eric Wisniewski
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020028 - 10 Apr 2024
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The recently demonstrated concept of the plasma photocathode, whereby a high-brightness bunch is initialized by laser ionization within a plasma wakefield acceleration bubble, is informally referred to as Trojan Horse wakefield acceleration. In a similar vein, the dielectric Trojan Horse concept incorporates a
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The recently demonstrated concept of the plasma photocathode, whereby a high-brightness bunch is initialized by laser ionization within a plasma wakefield acceleration bubble, is informally referred to as Trojan Horse wakefield acceleration. In a similar vein, the dielectric Trojan Horse concept incorporates a dielectric-lined waveguide to support a charged particle beam-driven accelerating mode and uses laser initiated ionization of neutral gas within the waveguide to generate a witness beam. One of the advantages of the dielectric Trojan Horse concept is the reduced requirements in terms of timing precision due to operation at a lower frequency. In this paper, we present experimental results on the generation and characterization of a four-bunch drive train for resonant excitation of wakefields in a cylindrical dielectric waveguide conducted at the Argonne Wakefield Accelerator facility. The results lay the foundation for the demonstration of a plasma photocathode scheme within a dielectric wakefield accelerating structure. Modifications to improve capture efficiency with improved beam transmission are suggested as well.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the Workshop on Physics and Applications of High Brightness Beams)
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Jitter Measurements of 1 cm2 LGADs for Space Experiments
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Ashish Bisht, Leo Cavazzini, Matteo Centis Vignali, Fabiola Caso, Omar Hammad Ali, Francesco Ficorella, Maurizio Boscardin and Giovanni Paternoster
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020027 - 29 Mar 2024
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This work explores the possibility of using Low Gain Avalanche Diodes (LGADs) for tracker-based experiments studying Charged Cosmic Rays (CCRs) in space. While conventional silicon microstrip sensors provide only spatial information about the charged particle passing through the tracker, LGADs have the potential
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This work explores the possibility of using Low Gain Avalanche Diodes (LGADs) for tracker-based experiments studying Charged Cosmic Rays (CCRs) in space. While conventional silicon microstrip sensors provide only spatial information about the charged particle passing through the tracker, LGADs have the potential to provide additional timing information with a resolution in the order of tens of picoseconds. For the first time, it has been demonstrated that an LGAD with an active area of approximately 1 cm2 can achieve a jitter of less than 40 ps. A comparison of design and gain layers is carried out to understand which provides the best time resolution. For this purpose, laboratory measurements of sensors’ electrical properties and gain using LED and an Infrared laser, as well as their jitter, were performed.
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Development of High-Voltage Electrodes for Neutron Scattering Sample Environment Devices
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Guoliang Sun, Tingting Guo, Bao Yuan, Xiaojing Yang and Guang Wang
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020026 - 28 Mar 2024
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The sample environment is essential to neutron scattering experiments as it induces the sample under study into a phase or state of particular interest. Various sample environments have been developed, yet the high-voltage electric field has rarely been documented. In this study, Bruce
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The sample environment is essential to neutron scattering experiments as it induces the sample under study into a phase or state of particular interest. Various sample environments have been developed, yet the high-voltage electric field has rarely been documented. In this study, Bruce electrodes with various sectional geometries and chamber sizes were examined by using simulation modeling based on ANSYS Maxwell. A large uniform field region where samples would sit could be achieved in the planar region for all specifications, but the size of the region and the field strength varied with the gap distance between electrodes. The edging effect was inherently observed even for bare electrodes, about 1.7% higher in the sinusoidal region than the planar region, and was significantly deteriorated when a chamber was applied. This effect, however, presented an exponential decrease as the minimum distance between the electrode edge and the chamber shell increased. A compromise between the spatial confinement and the achievable field (strength and uniform region) could be reached according to the unique applicability of neutron instruments. This research provides a theoretical basis for the subsequent design and manufacturing of high-voltage sample environment devices.
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The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) and New Directions for the Future
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Paolo Soffitta
Instruments 2024, 8(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8020025 - 25 Mar 2024
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An observatory dedicated to X-ray polarimetry has been operational since 9 December 2021. The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), a collaboration between NASA and ASI, features three X-ray telescopes equipped with detectors sensitive to linear polarization set to 120°. This marks the first
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An observatory dedicated to X-ray polarimetry has been operational since 9 December 2021. The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), a collaboration between NASA and ASI, features three X-ray telescopes equipped with detectors sensitive to linear polarization set to 120°. This marks the first instance of a three-telescope SMEX mission. Upon reaching orbit, an extending boom was deployed, extending the optics and detector to a focal length of 4 m. IXPE targets each celestial source through dithering observations. This method is essential for supporting on-ground calibrations by averaging the detector’s response across a section of its sensitive plane. The spacecraft supplies power, enables attitude determination for subsequent on-ground attitude reconstruction, and issues control commands. After two years of observation, IXPE has detected significant linear polarization from nearly all classes of celestial sources emitting X-rays. This paper outlines the IXPE mission’s achievements after two years of operation in orbit. In addition, we report developments for future high-throughput X-ray optics that will have much smaller dead-times by using a new generation of Applied Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC), and may provide 3D reconstruction of photo-electron tracks.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Space AstroParticle Physics: Frontier Technologies for Particle Measurements in Space)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
A Portable Tool for Spectral Analysis of Plant Leaves That Incorporates a Multichannel Detector to Enable Faster Data Capture
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Juan Botero-Valencia, Erick Reyes-Vera, Elizabeth Ospina-Rojas and Flavio Prieto-Ortiz
Instruments 2024, 8(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8010024 - 17 Mar 2024
Abstract
In this study, a novel system was designed to enhance the efficiency of data acquisition in a portable and compact instrument dedicated to the spectral analysis of various surfaces, including plant leaves, and materials requiring characterization within the 410 to 915 nm range.
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In this study, a novel system was designed to enhance the efficiency of data acquisition in a portable and compact instrument dedicated to the spectral analysis of various surfaces, including plant leaves, and materials requiring characterization within the 410 to 915 nm range. The proposed system incorporates two nine-band detectors positioned on the top and bottom of the target surface, each equipped with a digitally controllable LED. The detectors are capable of measuring both reflection and transmission properties, depending on the LED configuration. Specifically, when the upper LED is activated, the lower detector operates without its LED, enabling the precise measurement of light transmitted through the sample. The process is reversed in subsequent iterations, facilitating an accurate assessment of reflection and transmission for each side of the target surface. For reliability, the error estimation utilizes a color checker, followed by a multi-layer perceptron (MLP) implementation integrated into the microcontroller unit (MCU) using TinyML technology for real-time refined data acquisition. The system is constructed with 3D-printed components and cost-effective electronics. It also supports USB or Bluetooth communication for data transmission. This innovative detector marks a significant advancement in spectral analysis, particularly for plant research, offering the potential for disease detection and nutritional deficiency assessment.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Instruments 2021–2022)
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On the Development of Inkjet-Printed Band Pass Filters Based on the Microstrip Hairpin Structure
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Giovanni Gugliandolo, Antonino Quattrocchi, Giuseppe Campobello, Giovanni Crupi and Nicola Donato
Instruments 2024, 8(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8010023 - 16 Mar 2024
Abstract
In recent years, inkjet printing has emerged as a promising advanced fabrication technology in the field of electronics, offering remarkable advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness, design flexibility, and rapid prototyping. For these reasons, inkjet printing technology has been widely adopted in various applications,
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In recent years, inkjet printing has emerged as a promising advanced fabrication technology in the field of electronics, offering remarkable advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness, design flexibility, and rapid prototyping. For these reasons, inkjet printing technology has been widely adopted in various applications, including printed circuit board fabrication, sensor development (e.g., temperature, humidity, and pressure sensing), and antenna and filter production, up to the microwave frequency range. The present paper is focused on the investigation of a methodology based on Monte Carlo simulations for quantitatively assessing the influence of fabrication tolerances on the performance of inkjet-printed microwave devices. In particular, the proposed methodology is applied to an inkjet-printed hairpin band pass filter specifically tailored for operation in the L band (i.e., from 1 GHz to 2 GHz). The initial design phase involved the use of computer aided design (CAD) software to optimize the geometric dimensions of the designed filter to closely match the desired performance specifications in terms of bandwidth, insertion loss, and return loss. Later, a Monte Carlo analysis was conducted to evaluate the propagation of tolerances in the fabrication process throughout the design and to estimate their effects on device performance. The fabrication process exploited the advanced capabilities of the Voltera inkjet printer, which was used to deposit a silver-based conductive ink on a commercial Rogers substrate. The device’s performance was evaluated by comparing the simulated scattering parameters with those measured on the developed filter using a vector network analyzer (VNA), thus ensuring accurate validation of real-world performance.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microwave Measurements, Methods and Instruments for Science, Society and Industry)
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Production and Processing of the Radionuclide 76Br
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Karsten Franke, Jann Schöngart and Alexander Mansel
Instruments 2024, 8(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8010022 - 13 Mar 2024
Abstract
Four-dimensional visualization, i.e., three-dimensional space plus time, of fluid flow and its interactions in geological materials using positron emission tomography (PET) requires suitable radiotracers that exhibit the desired physicochemical interactions. 76Br is a likely candidate as a conservative tracer in these studies.
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Four-dimensional visualization, i.e., three-dimensional space plus time, of fluid flow and its interactions in geological materials using positron emission tomography (PET) requires suitable radiotracers that exhibit the desired physicochemical interactions. 76Br is a likely candidate as a conservative tracer in these studies. [76Se]CoSe was produced and used as the target material for the production of 76Br via the (p,n) reaction at a Cyclone 18/9 cyclotron. 76Br was separated from the target by thermochromatographic distillation using a semi-automated system, combining a quartz glass apparatus with a synthesis module. 76Br was successfully produced at the cyclotron with a physical yield of 72 MBq/µAh (EOB). The total radiochemical yield of 76Br from the irradiated [76Se]CoSe target (EOS) was 68.6%. A total of 40 MBq–100 MBq n.c.a. 76Br were routinely prepared for PET experiments in 3 mL 20 mM Cl− solution. The spatial resolution of a PET scan with 76Br in geological materials was determined to be about 5 mm. The established procedure enables the routine investigation of hydrodynamics by PET techniques in geological materials that strongly sorb commonly used PET tracers such as 18F.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 15th Workshop of the European Cyclotron Network (CYCLEUR 2023))
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Analysis of Near-Field Magnetic Responses on ZrTe5 through Cryogenic Magneto-THz Nano-Imaging
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Samuel Haeuser, Richard H. J. Kim, Joong-Mok Park, Randall K. Chan, Muhammad Imran, Thomas Koschny and Jigang Wang
Instruments 2024, 8(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8010021 - 5 Mar 2024
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One manifestation of light-Weyl fermion interaction is the emergence of chiral magnetic effects under magnetic fields. Probing real space magnetic responses at terahertz (THz) scales is challenging but highly desired, as the local responses are less affected by the topologically trivial inhomogeneity that
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One manifestation of light-Weyl fermion interaction is the emergence of chiral magnetic effects under magnetic fields. Probing real space magnetic responses at terahertz (THz) scales is challenging but highly desired, as the local responses are less affected by the topologically trivial inhomogeneity that is ubiquitous in spatially averaged measurements. Here, we implement a cryogenic THz microscopy instrument under a magnetic field environment—a task only recently achieved. We explore the technical approach of this system and characterize the magnetic field’s influence on our AFM operation by statistical noise analysis. We find evidence for local near-field spatial variations in the topological semimetal ZrTe5 up to a 5-Tesla magnetic field and obtain near-field THz spectra to discuss their implications for future studies on the chiral magnetic effect.
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Scattering Polarimetry in the Hard X-ray Range
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Enrico Costa
Instruments 2024, 8(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8010020 - 2 Mar 2024
Abstract
In one and a half years, the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer has demonstrated the role and the potentiality of Polarimetry in X-ray Astronomy. The next steps include extension to higher energies. There is margin for an extension of the photoelectric approach up to
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In one and a half years, the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer has demonstrated the role and the potentiality of Polarimetry in X-ray Astronomy. The next steps include extension to higher energies. There is margin for an extension of the photoelectric approach up to 20–25 keV, but above that energy the only technique is Compton Scattering. Grazing incidence optics can focus photons up to 80 keV, not excluding a marginal extension to 150–200 keV. Given the physical constraints involved, the passage from photoelectric to scattering approach can make less effective the use of optics because of the high background. I discuss the choices in terms of detector design to mitigate the problem and the guidelines for future technological developments.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Space AstroParticle Physics: Frontier Technologies for Particle Measurements in Space)
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A High-Flux Compact X-ray Free-Electron Laser for Next-Generation Chip Metrology Needs
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James B. Rosenzweig, Gerard Andonian, Ronald Agustsson, Petr M. Anisimov, Aurora Araujo, Fabio Bosco, Martina Carillo, Enrica Chiadroni, Luca Giannessi, Zhirong Huang, Atsushi Fukasawa, Dongsung Kim, Sergey Kutsaev, Gerard Lawler, Zenghai Li, Nathan Majernik, Pratik Manwani, Jared Maxson, Janwei Miao, Mauro Migliorati, Andrea Mostacci, Pietro Musumeci, Alex Murokh, Emilio Nanni, Sean O’Tool, Luigi Palumbo, River Robles, Yusuke Sakai, Evgenya I. Simakov, Madison Singleton, Bruno Spataro, Jingyi Tang, Sami Tantawi, Oliver Williams, Haoran Xu and Monika Yadavadd
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Instruments 2024, 8(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8010019 - 1 Mar 2024
Abstract
Recently, considerable work has been directed at the development of an ultracompact X-ray free-electron laser (UCXFEL) based on emerging techniques in high-field cryogenic acceleration, with attendant dramatic improvements in electron beam brightness and state-of-the-art concepts in beam dynamics, magnetic undulators, and X-ray optics.
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Recently, considerable work has been directed at the development of an ultracompact X-ray free-electron laser (UCXFEL) based on emerging techniques in high-field cryogenic acceleration, with attendant dramatic improvements in electron beam brightness and state-of-the-art concepts in beam dynamics, magnetic undulators, and X-ray optics. A full conceptual design of a 1 nm (1.24 keV) UCXFEL with a length and cost over an order of magnitude below current X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) has resulted from this effort. This instrument has been developed with an emphasis on permitting exploratory scientific research in a wide variety of fields in a university setting. Concurrently, compact FELs are being vigorously developed for use as instruments to enable next-generation chip manufacturing through use as a high-flux, few nm lithography source. This new role suggests consideration of XFELs to urgently address emerging demands in the semiconductor device sector, as identified by recent national need studies, for new radiation sources aimed at chip manufacturing. Indeed, it has been shown that one may use coherent X-rays to perform 10–20 nm class resolution surveys of macroscopic, cm scale structures such as chips, using ptychographic laminography techniques. As the XFEL is a very promising candidate for realizing such methods, we present here an analysis of the issues and likely solutions associated with extending the UCXFEL to harder X-rays (above 7 keV), much higher fluxes, and increased levels of coherence, as well as methods of applying such a source for ptychographic laminography to microelectronic device measurements. We discuss the development path to move the concept to rapid realization of a transformative XFEL-based application, outlining both FEL and metrology system challenges.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the Workshop on Physics and Applications of High Brightness Beams)
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Improving Fabrication and Performance of Additively Manufactured RF Cavities by Employing Co-Printed Support Structures and Their Subsequent Removal
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Michael Mayerhofer, Stefan Brenner, Michael Doppler, Luis Catarino, Stefanie Girst, Vesna Nedeljkovic-Groha and Günther Dollinger
Instruments 2024, 8(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8010018 - 1 Mar 2024
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The enormous potential of additive manufacturing (AM), particularly laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF), to produce radiofrequency cavities (cavities) has already been demonstrated. However, the required geometrical accuracy for GHz cavities is currently only achieved by (a) avoiding downskin angles
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The enormous potential of additive manufacturing (AM), particularly laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF), to produce radiofrequency cavities (cavities) has already been demonstrated. However, the required geometrical accuracy for GHz cavities is currently only achieved by (a) avoiding downskin angles , which in turn leads to a cavity geometry with reduced performance, or (b) co-printed support structures, which are difficult to remove for small GHz cavities. We have developed an L-PBF-based manufacturing routine to overcome this limitation. To enable arbitrary geometries, co-printed support structures are used that are designed in such a way that they can be removed after printing by electrochemical post-processing, which simultaneously reduces the surface roughness and thus maximizes the quality factor . The manufacturing approach is evaluated on two single cavities printed entirely from high-purity copper. Both cavities achieve the desired resonance frequency and a of approximately 8300.
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Results and Perspectives of Timepix Detectors in Space—From Radiation Monitoring in Low Earth Orbit to Astroparticle Physics
by
Benedikt Bergmann, Stefan Gohl, Declan Garvey, Jindřich Jelínek and Petr Smolyanskiy
Instruments 2024, 8(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8010017 - 29 Feb 2024
Abstract
In space application, hybrid pixel detectors of the Timepix family have been considered mainly for the measurement of radiation levels and dosimetry in low earth orbits. Using the example of the Space Application of Timepix Radiation Monitor (SATRAM), we demonstrate the unique capabilities
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In space application, hybrid pixel detectors of the Timepix family have been considered mainly for the measurement of radiation levels and dosimetry in low earth orbits. Using the example of the Space Application of Timepix Radiation Monitor (SATRAM), we demonstrate the unique capabilities of Timepix-based miniaturized radiation detectors for particle separation. We present the incident proton energy spectrum in the geographic location of SAA obtained by using Bayesian unfolding of the stopping power spectrum measured with a single-layer Timepix. We assess the measurement stability and the resiliency of the detector to the space environment, thereby demonstrating that even though degradation is observed, data quality has not been affected significantly over more than 10 years. Based on the SATRAM heritage and the capabilities of the latest-generation Timepix series chips, we discuss their applicability for use in a compact magnetic spectrometer for a deep space mission or in the Jupiter radiation belts, as well as their capability for use as single-layer X- and -ray polarimeters. The latter was supported by the measurement of the polarization of scattered radiation in a laboratory experiment, where a modulation of 80% was found.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Space AstroParticle Physics: Frontier Technologies for Particle Measurements in Space)
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Open AccessReview
Structural Health Monitoring of Solid Rocket Motors: From Destructive Testing to Perspectives of Photonic-Based Sensing
by
Georgia Korompili, Günter Mußbach and Christos Riziotis
Instruments 2024, 8(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8010016 - 28 Feb 2024
Abstract
In the realm of space exploration, solid rocket motors (SRMs) play a pivotal role due to their reliability and high thrust-to-weight ratio. Serving as boosters in space launch vehicles and employed in military systems, and other critical & emerging applications, SRMs’ structural integrity
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In the realm of space exploration, solid rocket motors (SRMs) play a pivotal role due to their reliability and high thrust-to-weight ratio. Serving as boosters in space launch vehicles and employed in military systems, and other critical & emerging applications, SRMs’ structural integrity monitoring, is of paramount importance. Traditional maintenance approaches often prove inefficient, leading to either unnecessary interventions or unexpected failures. Condition-based maintenance (CBM) emerges as a transformative strategy, incorporating advanced sensing technologies and predictive analytics. By continuously monitoring crucial parameters such as temperature, pressure, and strain, CBM enables real-time analysis, ensuring timely intervention upon detecting anomalies, thereby optimizing SRM lifecycle management. This paper critically evaluates conventional SRM health diagnosis methods and explores emerging sensing technologies. Photonic sensors and fiber-optic sensors, in particular, demonstrate exceptional promise. Their enhanced sensitivity and broad measurement range allow precise monitoring of temperature, strain, pressure, and vibration, capturing subtle changes indicative of degradation or potential failures. These sensors enable comprehensive, non-intrusive monitoring of multiple SRM locations simultaneously. Integrated with data analytics, these sensors empower predictive analysis, facilitating SRM behavior prediction and optimal maintenance planning. Ultimately, CBM, bolstered by advanced photonic sensors, promises enhanced operational availability, reduced costs, improved safety, and efficient resource allocation in SRM applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photonic Devices Instrumentation and Applications II)
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