Automated transient grating spectroscopy mapping and signal control for large samples

Rev Sci Instrum. 2024 Jul 1;95(7):074902. doi: 10.1063/5.0202262.

Abstract

We present developments for the mapping of large areas using transient grating spectroscopy (TGS) that allow for smoother, larger, autonomous measurements of material samples. The addition of a precise linear stage in the direction parallel to laser sampling coupled with signal optimizing control allows for hands free, self-correcting measurements. In addition, the simplification of the sample holding design to a form that is small enough to mount directly to the linear stage exhibits a straightforward, low-cost solution for automated TGS applications. This capability is demonstrated by taking large uninterrupted maps of gradient wafers, and the results are validated on calibrated tungsten samples and control TGS samples from gradient wafers.