A MEMS-based high frequency x-ray chopper.
Time-resolved x-ray experiments require intensity modulation at high frequencies (advanced rotating choppers have nowadays reached the kHz range). We here demonstrate that a silicon microlever oscillating at 13 kHz with nanometric amplitude can be used as a high frequency x-ray chopper. We claim that using micro-and nanoelectromechanical systems (MEMS and NEMS), it will be possible to achieve higher frequencies in excess of hundreds of megahertz. Working at such a frequency can open a wealth of possibilities in chemistry, biology and physics time-resolved experiments.
Institut Néel, CNRS-Université Joseph Fourier Grenoble, Grenoble Cedex 9, France.
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A
Siria
O
O
Dhez
W
W
Schwartz
G
G
Torricelli
F
F
Comin
J
J
Chevrier