Simplifying Access to X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy with Laboratory-Based X-Ray Spectrometers

Identification of oxidation state and coordination environment is often challenging, requiring arduous preparation and destructive analytical techniques which inhibit rapid analyses. X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is a non-destructive alternative often requiring fewer sample constraints, however access to this analytical technique is often restricted by infrequent beamtime availability and the highly competitive nature of access proposals. Advancements in laboratory-based XAS are addressing this issue, facilitating consistent access to routine element-specific analysis of oxidation state and coordination environment in users’ own labs. Intended to simplify and expand access to this powerful technique for both new and existing members of the XAS community, everyday analysis is a game-changer which enables researchers to control their experiment like never before. For non-dilute samples synchrotron quality data is achievable in transmission-mode within minutes facilitating measurement of time-sensitive reactions. Analysis of trace elements (few hundred PPM) is permitted by employing fluorescence-mode XAS with the same synchrotron-quality energy resolution. With a broad energy range (4.5-25 keV) capable of XAS analysis of over 50 elements ranging from titanium through the actinides laboratory-based X-ray absorption spectrometers provide a rapid means for advancing electrochemical research.