Introduction ~
Synchrotron radiation based infrared microspectroscopy (SR-IMS) beamline provide considerable brightness advantages over conventional IR sources. The combination of IMS with high brightness synchrotron radiation has greatly improved the spatial resolution of this technique by allowing high quality spectra to be collected from samples whole size is approaching the diffraction limit for this wavelength of infrared. The beam profile of the focused IR beam is measured by our IMS system. The focused beam size of internal Globar source is around area of 40 x 40 µm², and the beam size of the synchrotron infrared beam is around area of 10 x 13 µm² shown as in the Figure 1. Here we demonstrate this tight focus and the factor of ~30's improvement over conventional sources in measured signal through 5 µm pinhole in diameter.

Figure 1. Integrated IR signal intensity from 4000 – 650 cm-1 through a 5 µm pinhole being scanned on microscope stage. These two graphs demonstrate the spot size achieved using the internal Globar infrared source and the synchrotron IR beam, respectively.

The end-station of SR-IMS has been open since September 2005. SR-IMS is a technology of combination of the state-of-the-art FT-IR spectroscopy, optical microscope with all-reflecting optics, and synchrotron infrared radiation generated from bending magnet edges in an electron storage ring. The three disciplines have special traits, each adding value of IMS analyses. IMS is a refined technology for the identification and quantification of materials on a microscopic scale. As the shapes and forms of natural objects provided the foundation for biological science, spectroscopy has anchored our understanding of molecular structure. Microscopic examination reveals the fine details of tissue morphology. With inventive skill and imagination, biological found ways to selectively stain tissue, visually defining chemical classes by specific colors. A stained tissue section is a vivid and detailed image of chemical distribution. Now, IMS allows biologists to explore the complex chemistry of biological tissue directly and to relate molecular chemistry with morphology. These analyses may probe composition at a single point or generation an extended map. If spectra from an array of points are collected, then these data can be used to prepare spectral images.

BL14A1 is the only infrared beamline in operation at NSRRC, some general information are listed here, and for more detailed information please visit the website of the Infrared Microspectroscopy Facility at NSRRC.

IR Microspectroscopy Website: http://140.110.203.42/bldoc/14AIRMicroscopy.htm

Contact Information ~

BL14A1 Hutch for SR-IMS End-Station	Infrared Microspectroscopy System
Sample Stage of Infrared Microscope	Optical Box of Infrared Beamline