Project Title:

A Small Simultaneous Soft X-ray Spectrometer

94-1	08.05	0930	B	

A Small Simultaneous Soft X-ray Spectrometer

Abstract:

We propose to develop a small X-ray spectrometer that will measure 
simultaneously a range of the periodic table in the soft X-ray 
region. We hope this range will extend from Boron through Sulphur. 
The spectrometer will be wavelength dispersive so will have high 
resolution, but will not have any moving parts. Also the proposed 
spectrometer will not require cooling, and will not consume much 
power. The spectrometer will use a Von Hamoss design, with the 
reflecting element containing several strips of X-ray reflecting 
multilayers, each optimized for one wavelength at a given Bragg 
angle. During data collection all of the multilayers will be 
exposed to the radiation simultaneously. The detector is to be a 
linear photo-diode array that will be coated with an X-ray storage 
phosphor and a laser light filter. The storage phosphor will 
collect X-rays over time, and a laser will then read out the 
phosphor. When the phosphor is read, the diode array will be 
activated, thus eliminating the noise that is very temperature 
dependent and is accumulated with solid state detectors over long 
integration times. This will also make the detector much less 
sensitive to the visible and infrared spectrum.

This spectrometer could be adapted for use in many areas, due to 
its low power consumption and ability to operate well without 
cooling. It could be used for in-line process control and in field 
instruments for industrial and environmental applications. We 
conservatively estimate the potential sales per year in these two 
markets to be approximately 10 million dollars after several (7) 
years. With modification to accept three or four different crystals 
or multilayer sets, it could cover the entire periodic table, 
enabling an entrance to a larger market.

Key Words

MOXTEK	
452 W. 1260 N.	
Orem, UT 84057