Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

Direct imaging of transient events can greatly aid the understanding of many underlying principles in materials science, chemistry, and biology. These events, often probabilistic and occurring at sub-nanosecond temporal scales and microscopic spatial scales, require real-time imaging at ultra-high spatiotemporal resolutions. However, established ultrafast imaging methods fall short due to their limited detection speed and therequirement of repetitive measurements. To overcome these limitations, we request to purchase an X-ray streak camera through this RTI grant, to develop an ultrafast imaging system with real-time, nanometer, and femtosecond imaging capabilities. This unprecedented imager, termed compressed ultrafast X-ray microscopy (CUXM), will combine X-ray imaging with compressed ultrafast photographythe worlds fastest imaging technique. CUXM will be integrated with the Advanced Laser Light Source (ALLS), which has already been equipped with suitable X-ray sources. Leveraging this novel experimental platform, we will image photo-induced nanograting formation and demagnetization dynamics in real time and will study their underlying physical mechanisms. The proposed program has both compelling scientific merits and far-reaching potential applications. CUXM, with an unprecedented imaging ability, will open new avenues for the microscopic elucidation of structural dynamics and time-dependent electrical properties in solids. In addition, as an experimental platform of ALLS, CUXM will significantly enhance the overall research ability of INRS-MT and Canada. Besides immediate impacts in materials science, CUXM holds great promise for studying a myriad of physical, biological, and chemical dynamics. In the long term, the generated knowledge will support future adoption of CUXM in synchrotrons (e.g., the Canadian Light Source). Providing an ultra-high temporal resolution without disturbing the synchrotrons normal operation, CUXM holds great potential for becoming the leading ultrafast imaging technology accompanying the next-generation high-brightness, high-coherence, diffraction-limited X-ray sources. The excellent track records and complementary expertise of the applicants will ensure the fast progress and overall success of the proposed program. In addition, the proposed program has attracted ten collaborators in the fields of X-ray imaging and synchrotron radiation at the worlds premier institutes, emphasizing the scientific quality and long-term impacts of the proposed CUXM system. Beyond its scientific merits, the proposed research activities aimto provide the best possible HQP training environment. Finally, CUXM will engender new partnerships with Canadas leading photonic companies and will enhance Canadas position in other related industries.