ID16B Beamline at ESRF: Multi-dimensional Nano-imaging in Earth Sciences

Nano-imaging is a critical tool for understanding the intricate chemical, physical, and structural characteristics of Earth materials, offering different perspectives on processes such as mineral formation, melt dynamics, and element redistribution. In this context, ID16B at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) stands out as a premier beamline for high-resolution nano-imaging, combining cutting-edge technology with versatility for studying diverse complex geological phenomena.

The ID16B beamline is specifically designed for nano-focused X-ray imaging and spectroscopy, delivering exceptional spatial resolution and sensitivity. Its advanced technical capabilities include hard X-ray nano-tomography with a pixel size as small as 25 nm, nano-X-ray fluorescence utilizing a sub-100 nm pencil beam capable of detecting element concentrations down to the parts-per-million (ppm) level, nano-X-ray diffraction with a monochromatic beam of ΔE/E ≈10^-4, and nano-X-ray absorption spectroscopy covering an energy range of 5 keV to 33 keV with a resolution of 0.5 eV. This energy range encompasses the K-edges and L-edges of numerous elements, allowing comprehensive elemental and chemical analysis.

A particularly unique feature of ID16B is its capability for in situ x-ray tomography imaging at elevated temperatures using a custom-designed furnace. The furnace enables experiments to be conducted at temperatures up to 1000°C, offering an opportunity to simulate geological conditions and directly observe dynamic processes such as crystallization and phase transitions. Additionally, the high-flux synchrotron source at ESRF enables rapid data acquisition, allowing complete tomography scans to be performed within seconds. This capability makes it an exceptional platform for investigating dynamic and time-sensitive geological processes.

The ID16B beamline's technical innovations and experimental flexibility highlight its critical role in nano-imaging within Earth Sciences. Its combination of imaging techniques allows researchers to obtain detailed compositional and structural data without damaging valuable geological samples. By providing access to nano-scale measurements through various complementary techniques, ID16B empowers researchers to explore geological processes with unprecedented detail and accuracy, addressing long-standing questions and opening new avenues for interdisciplinary investigation