Elemental Mapping and Micro-Imaging by X-Ray Capillary Optics

Many experiments have recently revealed the advantages of "confocal" optical configuration for the fluorescence studies. Indeed, this peculiar layout enables micro X-ray fluorescence mapping simultaneously with X-ray imaging. In this letter the results of experimental investigations for novel polycapillary lenses are presented. The recorded image of characterized extended sample (⋍ 3 mm) with a 6 μm spatial resolution, limited by the CCD pixel size, is shown. The use of a second polycapillary lens in the confocal scheme followed by a SDD detector provides an additional option for elemental studies. A prototype of compact XRF spectrometer with a spatial resolution less than 100 μm has been designed.