Practical X-ray Spectrometry with Second-Generation Microcalorimeter Detectors

Abstract

X-ray spectroscopy is a widely used and extremely sensitive analytical technique for qualitative as well as quantitative elemental analysis. Typically, high-energy-resolution X-ray spectrometers are integrated with a high-spatial-resolution scanning electron microscope (SEM) or transmission electron microscope (TEM) for X-ray microanalysis applications. The focused electron beam of the SEM or TEM excites characteristic X rays that are emitted by the sample. The integrated X-ray spectrometer can then be used to identify and quantify the elemental composition of the sample on a sub-micron length scale. This combination of energy resolution and spatial resolution makes X-ray microanalysis of great importance to the semiconductor industry.