New opportunities for high pressure X-ray absorption spectroscopy using dispersive optics

Energy dispersive X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is particularly suited for high pressure studies using diamond anvil cells (DAC). The absence of mechanical movements of the spectrometer during the acquisition of the spectra and the strongly focusing polychromator crystal yield the required spot stability and dimensions, respectively, and offer advantages compared to energy scanning methods, especially for applications at very high pressures and to detect very small signals. This paper describes new developments in the optics of the dispersive XAS beamline at the ESRF (ID24). Although mainly focused on technical aspects, some examples of recent applications are given as an illustration of the potential of this instrument for high pressure applications. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.