Experimental validation of multiple scattering calculations with high energy X-ray photons

Experimental data and results of numerical simulations of multiple scattering of polarized X-ray photons are presented and compared. The simulations were performed with a Monte Carlo code developed by the authors optimized to simulate Compton scattering experiments. The ultimate goal is to validate a procedure for correction of experimental Compton profiles. Measurements were done on Al samples with synchrotron radiation and the contribution of photons suffering several scattering events was enhanced by minimizing or canceling out the single scattering part. This was achieved by either taking advantage of the polarization properties of the beam or by making the difference of spectra with the same single scattering component. Samples of different sizes and thickness were measured in transmission and reflection geometry. Good agreement with simulations was observed in all cases and even detailed spectral structure of the multiple scattering component was properly reproduced by the calculations. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.