The most powerful X-ray machine ever developed

Scientists at the University of Melbourne’s School of Physics have built a rotating anode source that turns ordinary X-rays into super X-rays, thus developing the world’s most powerful X-ray machine.

After the synchrotron, which is a different type of technology, this is one of the most powerful scientific tools to investigate atoms.

“This super X-ray machine gives us the capability of mapping the energies of the atom previously inaccessible and unseen by other apparatus,” said Professor Christopher Chantler, head of the research team that created the system.

The device is already of interest to chemical, biological and physical scientists as it can enhance investigations of chemical environments and the interaction of light with matter, and link to studies of complex mineral formation in the Earth’s crust.

The research team tested the super X-rays on copper atoms and demonstrated unprecedented levels of accuracy at the atomic level that have never been seen before. Published in the Journal of Physics B, the data shed new light on the theoretical calculations and theoretical electron scattering models.

“This copper atom data also means we have provided new insights into calibrating less powerful X-ray machines with much higher accuracy,” said Professor Chantler.

The university’s Dr Bryn Sobott, one of the winners of the prestigious Bill Gates Humanitarian award, said, “The real value of the rotating anode is that it opens up new scientific experimentation. This is particularly the case for high statistics; high-precision measurements are required by our group as we strive to probe the nature of matter.”

Professor Chantler added, “The super X-ray has industrial representatives from scientific instruments makers and imaging companies interested about future opportunities for commercial development.”

The X-ray laboratory will also be used to train students as a stepping stone for opportunities at synchrotrons and free electron lasers.