X-Ray Analyzers for Synchrotrons

Designs and produces highly specialized X-Ray Analyzers for large-scale instruments that are synchrotrons. The market for these mirrors is highly specialized and used in many branches of science such as biology, chemistry, physics, electronics, environmental science, materials engineering and medicine.

The specificity of the synchrotron is to emit, under the effect of the acceleration of electrons, radiation mainly composed of X-rays. These X-rays irradiate the samples to be studied, before being scattered by mirrors of spherical crystals that focus the rays on the detectors used to record the data. This allows researchers to obtain a perfect characterization of materials and their properties. The result is considerable progress in many industries, including aeronautics, automotive and medicine, etc.

We have acquired a solid reputation in this market, thanks to the very high quality of its products, the diversity of its crystals (based on silicon or germanium) and the extreme delicacy of its finishing operations, including polishing. As you can imagine, mirrors for synchrotrons must meet demanding specifications. The manufacturing process is very complex and meticulous. The silicon ingots are cut into thin disks (from 0.14 to 0.18mm), which are then bent and deformed to fit the spherical glass support of the mirror. The final stage of polishing the discs is extremely precise, done by hand by a highly qualified team.