X-ray Bragg diffraction in asymmetric backscattering geometry

Phys Rev Lett. 2006 Dec 8;97(23):235502. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.97.235502. Epub 2006 Dec 8.

Abstract

We observe three effects in the Bragg diffraction of x rays in backscattering geometry from asymmetrically cut crystals. First, exact Bragg backscattering takes place not at normal incidence to the reflecting atomic planes. Second, a well-collimated (approximately 1 microrad) beam is transformed after the Bragg reflection into a strongly divergent beam (230 microrad) with reflection angle dependent on x-ray wavelength--an effect of angular dispersion. The asymmetrically cut crystal thus behaves like an optical prism, dispersing an incident collimated polychromatic beam. The dispersion rate is approximately 8.5 mrad/eV. Third, parasitic Bragg reflections accompanying Bragg backreflection are suppressed. These effects offer a radically new means for monochromatization of x rays not limited by the intrinsic width of the Bragg reflection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.