P61A is designed for engineering materials science experiments using diffraction and imaging techniques. The broad spectrum extending to high energies allows for measurement of metallic samples such as steel or Ni alloys with thicknesses up to a few tens of millimeter. The high flux allows for efficient data collection and in situ experiments.
On diffraction, measurements can be carried in two geometries, reflection and transmission. On reflection, measurements of near surface property gradients can be performed. On transmission, measurements are collected within a gauge volume, allowing three-dimensional mapping of thick samples. Given the beam characteristics and the advantages of the EDXRD measurement geometry, the beamline is uniquely suited for stress determination in metallic samples with spatial heterogeneities, e.g. welds, additively manufactured parts and functional components. The main science case for diffraction experiments is the study of materials manufacturing processes.
On imaging, the high flux enables high speed radiography at high energies, allowing for the observation of fast processes in highly absorbing materials, albeit with reduced contrast due to the white beam, and a relatively small field of view. Imaging at frequencies up to 5 kHz is routine. Higher acquisition rates are possible, but depend highly on the experiment setup. The main science case for imaging experiments is the localized observation of fast manufacturing processes, such as laser or electron beam additive manufacturing.
P61A can also host experiments that make use of the unique properties of the P61 white beam. The experimental hutch is designed to accommodate roll-in, roll-off experimental setups. One example is the moveable Micro-beam radiotherapy (MRT) irradiation setup, developed in cooperation with UM-Rostock and EMBL. The MRT setup in conjunction with other beamline instrumentation can be used to deposit controlled doses with a high median energy (>100 keV) beam in phantoms and cell cultures.
