Spectroscopy and Diffraction

Additional Information

EMSL's suite of spectroscopy and diffraction instruments allows users to study solid-, liquid-, and gas-phase sample structure and composition with remarkable resolution. Ideal for integrated studies, spectrometers and diffractometers are easily coupled with EMSL's computational and modeling capabilities, allowing users to apply a multifaceted research approach for experimental data interpretation and gain fundamental understanding of scientific problems. At EMSL, spectroscopy and diffraction instruments are used to study samples with a variety of applications.

Electron spectroscopy – Achieving nanoscale spatial resolution, EMSL users can study the elemental composition, structural properties, and chemical state of materials with applications to thin films, nanomaterials, catalysis, biological and environmental sciences, corrosion, and atmospheric aerosols.
Electron backscatter diffraction – EMSL offers three-dimensional reconstruction and characterization of microstructures in environmental and material science samples using focused ion beam-electron backscatter diffraction analysis.
Infrared and Raman spectroscopy – Vibrational spectra can be obtained for a host of different samples. For example, spectra have been obtained to study vitrified glass, clays and minerals, aqueous samples, bacteria, and aerosol particulates.
Ion/molecular beam spectroscopy – Ideal for the study of complex materials, beam capabilities are applied to analyses of thin films and interfaces, studies of radiation effects in solids, ion beam synthesis of nanostructures, and atmospheric aerosol characterization.
Mössbauer spectroscopy – Versatile and highly sensitive, EMSL users can apply Mössbauer capabilities to obtain information about the valence state, coordination number, and crystal field strengths for diverse samples, such as iron oxides in soils and sediments, catalysts, and iron-doped glasses.
Optical spectroscopy – Fluorimetry, stopped-flow absorbance, and coupled confocal-Raman tools allow analysis of samples with applications to biology, radiochemistry, and catalysis. For example, EMSL's optical spectroscopy tools have been applied to study novel uranium mineral phases and conduct spatially resolved measurements of stress at the molecular level.
X-ray diffractometers – EMSL's capability includes phase analysis and structural analysis of powder specimens with options for variable-temperature and non-ambient environments. The high-resolution instrument is well suited for determining epitaxial relationships of thin films, and EMSL's microbeam instrument can rapidly analyze small specimens.

Capability Detail

For a full listing, refer to the "Capabilities" table that links to detailed information about each of EMSL's spectroscopy and diffraction instruments, as well as the appropriate contact(s). Brief details about some primary spectroscopy and diffraction tools available to EMSL users include:

Electron spectrometers with Auger, high-spatial, and energy-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electrospray ionization capabilities
Various electron microscopes with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, and electron backscatter diffraction capabilities
Fourier transform infrared spectrometers with visible and near-, mid- and far-infrared capabilities
Ion accelerator system equipped with gas and sputter ion sources, a 3.0-MV electrostatic tandem ion accelerator, three beam lines, and end stations used for materials modification and analysis using mm- to µm-size ion beams
Five Mössbauer spectroscopy systems with velocity transducers and transducers for conversion-electron Mössbauer spectroscopy, as well as applied field and sources for ⁵⁷Fe and ¹⁵¹Eu studies
Optical spectroscopy tools, including confocal-Raman, time-resolved fluorescence, circular dichroism, stopped-flow absorbance, laser-induced breakdown, and second harmonic generation capabilities
Several X-ray diffraction instruments, including powder diffractometers with divergent and parallel beams for polycrystalline specimens. Multiple bounce Ge monochromators on primary and diffracted beams for high-resolution studies of epitaxial thin films. Micro-focus (10-500 µm) instrument with rotating anode source and image plate detector
Multiple instruments feature variable temperature capability.

Examining the core components of Arctic clouds to clear up their influence on climate (Forecast calls for better models)
Predictive models of environmental reaction kinetics made more accurate, scalable (Scaled up)
Sulfide and iron work together to reveal a new path for radionuclide sequestration (Sulfur cleans up)
Scientists gain first quantitative insights into electron transfer from minerals to microbes (Tunable transfer)
Biofilms move electrons long distances across two distinct layers, even under starving conditions (Long distance)