EXAFS/reflEXAFS experiments using laser-produced plasma x-ray sources

Laser-produced plasma continuum X-ray sources have been generated using the high power VULCAN glass laser system at the SERC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, and used for a range of X-ray absorption spectroscopic measurements. EXAFS (extended X-ray absorption fine structure) spectra have been recorded in transmission mode for various low Z materials using both time-integrated and time-resolved techniques, and experiments have been performed to study ion correlation effects in a strongly coupled plasma via nearest neighbour distance measurement. A reflection geometry has also been demonstrated in which grazing incidence reflection EXAFS (reflEXAFS) spectra have been recorded, and experiments performed to investigate surface effects occurring during pulsed laser irradiation of thin nickel overlays on silicon. An assessment is made of the usefulness of such experimental methods, and comparisons made with alternative techniques