Speaker
Description
Muon-Induced X-ray Emission (MIXE) is a non-destructive analytical technique that combines the unique properties of negative muons with high resolution gamma detectors to perform depth-resolved elemental analysis. At PSI, the Germanium Array for Non-destructive Testing (GIANT) instrument leverages a high-intensity continuous muon beam (15–60 MeV/c) to implant muons at tunable depths (µm to cm scale). The subsequent emission of muonic X-rays during atomic de-excitation provides element-specific fingerprints, with sensitivities at the permille level for most elements in the periodic table [1,2].
In archaeology, the technique facilitated the confirmation of the meteoritic origin of a Late Bronze Age iron arrowhead by precisely measuring the high Ni content of the bulk material [3]. The analysis of a Late Antique knob bow fibula revealed dual bronze alloys: high-Pb cast components and low-Pb forged parts, indicating advanced metallurgical tailoring [4]. In energy materials, MIXE paves the way for operando analyses of batteries, such as studying transition-metal plating on electrodes, which is critical for degradation studies [5].
References
[1] S. Biswas et al., Appl. Sci. 12(5), 2541 (2022)
[2] L. Gerchow et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 94, 045106 (2023)
[3] B. Hofmann et al., J. Archaeol. Sci. 157, 105827 (2023)
[4] S. Biswas et al., Herit. Sci. 11, 43 (2023)
[5] F. Quérel et al., J. Mater. Chem. A 13, 2275 (2025)
| michael.heiss@psi.ch | |
| Funding Agency | Paul Scherrer Institut |
| Supervisors Name | Thomas Prokscha |
| Supervisors Email | thomas.prokscha@psi.ch |
| Did you request an Invitation Letter for a Visitors Visa Application | No |
