Platform enabling streamlined in-operando synchrotron X-ray characterization of laser- and electron-beam processes

To stimulate novel products, improve processes and significantly reduce energy and materials use in industry e.g. transportation, energy, aerospace, steel and aluminum etc., Sweden is increasing its basic and applied research in electron- and laser-beam processing, including additive manufacturing.

The next step in this research is assessing the real-time interactions of the beam with the material, which requires in operando experiments at synchrotrons.

This will be enabled by: i) hardware for laser- and electron-beam processing implemented at the Swedish beamline at the PETRA III synchrotron, easy transferability from home laboratory equipment will be ensured; ii) associated measurement control and data acquisition protocols as well as pipelines for rapid conversion of the data to the required results will be developed.

The resulting modular platform will remove  obstacles and provide in operando synchrotron measurements of laser- and electron-beam processes to the large and continuously growing community of researchers.

The platform will also significantly stimulate direct industry research and development by lowering the barriers for in operando experiments.

Key to successful platform accessibility will be dedicated staff who will devote time for training users and supporting beamtimes.

The accessibility is ensured by both the long-term engagement of the participating researchers and employment of two supporting researchers.