Rapid and cost-effective manufacturing of polymer-based refractive X-ray optics

Our proposal is focused on advancing the development and commercialization of an efficient and costeffective technique tailored for crafting and deploying refractive X-ray optics, specifically designed for diffraction-limited applications. The recent enhancements in synchrotron radiation sources, marked by unparalleled brilliance and coherence levels, have proven indispensable for both fundamental and applied sciences. To fully exploit the potential of these ultrabright and coherent X-ray sources, precise control over X-ray manipulation is imperative. Diffraction-limited X-ray optics, essential for maintaining a coherent wavefront and minimizing unwanted distortions, play a pivotal role in maximizing the utility of advanced synchrotron radiation sources. Our proposal addresses these critical needs, aiming to make a substantial contribution to the optimization of emerging diffraction-limited synchrotron radiation sources. At Argonne National Laboratory, we have pioneered a method utilizing the two-photon polymerization lithography technique to create high-quality polymer-based refractive X-ray optics. These optics have demonstrated exceptional performance surpassing those currently available in the market, excelling in focusing coherent X-rays and preserving X-ray wavefronts, highlighting significant potential for diffractionlimiting applications. The recently developed one-photon polymerization lithography technique at Robot Nose Corporate has further refined this additive manufacturing method, enabling quicker printing on a larger scale with comparable high resolutions. The increasing demand for diffraction-limited optics is being driven by the rapid expansion of synchrotron sources. This demand is particularly pronounced when considering X-ray free-electron laser facilities and numerous laboratory X-ray instruments in schools, research labs, and hospitals. However, existing commercial solutions for refractive X-ray optics are financially prohibitive and fall short of the high-quality standard achievable with photon polymerization lithography. Our ongoing work and proposal aim to position our product at the forefront of advancements in the field of refractive X-ray optics.