Laboratory-Based Soft X-Ray Tomography: A Novel Laser Design, Source Monitoring, and Data-Processing Workflow

Method development for laboratory-based X-ray microscopes operating in the water-window range invariably involves the development of the X-ray source as well. This paper presents major upgrades to the laboratory soft X-ray microscope (L-TXM) plasma chamber and data analysis protocol. Characterization of the laser-plasma source demonstrates improved performance, while a proof-of-principle tomogram of a diatom showcases a robust data treatment protocol and the system's capabilities for three-dimensional imaging and segmentation. These developments mark significant progress toward making L-TXM a more robust and user-friendly tool for soft X-ray microscopy applications.