The XFM beamline – A multimodal Geoscope

Speaker

Dr Andrew Langendam

Abstract

The XFM beamline is a microfocus beamline at the Australian Synchrotron, capable of scanning large areas rapidly to detect trace elements at micron length scales at sensitivities down to ppm levels. This makes the beamline ideal for geoscience applications, and can collect a number of additional data types that can further inform on the rocks you are interested in. With the ability to conduct 2D oxidation state mapping through X-ray Absorption Near Edge Spectroscopy (XANES), X-ray Backscattered Diffraction Microscopy (XBDM), Microdiffraction (µXRD), Scanning Transmission X-ray Microscopy (STXM), Coherent Diffraction Imaging (CDI) and Ptychography, a thorough picture of many systems can be built. In this seminar, the XFM beamline will be introduced and the many techniques available and applications this data has for geoscience samples will be discussed. Information provided will include data from drill core and ore deposits, mine tailings, volcanic deposits, and hydrothermal sinter to show a wide variety of samples. How to apply for beamtime as well as a few tips to improve your chances of success will also be provided.

Bio

In a past life, Andrew was a Planetary Geologist interested in element mobility in the early Solar System. Specifically, he investigated how increasing ice content can affect the structure and composition of a resulting planetary body. He led field expeditions to search for meteorite falls throughout Australia’s deserts. Since joining the Synchrotron, his work has focused on developing and refining data collection for geoscience at the XFM beamline, including developing a technique for rapid collection of co-located fluorescence and microdiffraction maps.

This seminar will be presented by Webinar only