Quick scanning monochromator for millisecond in situ and in operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy

The design and capabilities of a novel Quick scanning Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (QEXAFS) monochromator are presented. The oscillatory movement of the crystal stage is realized by means of a unique open-loop driving scheme operating a direct drive torque motor. The entire drive mechanics are installed inside of a goniometer located on the atmospheric side of the vacuum chamber. This design allows remote adjustment of the oscillation frequency and spectral range, giving complete control of QEXAFS measurements. It also features a real step-scanning mode, which operates without a control loop to prevent induced vibrations. Equipped with Si(111) and Si(311) crystals on a single stage, it facilitates an energy range from 4.0 keV to 43 keV. Extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectra up to k = 14.4 Å(-1) have been acquired within 17 ms and X-ray absorption near edge structure spectra covering more than 200 eV within 10 ms. The achieved data quality is excellent as shown by the presented measurements.