TOMCAT offers a laser-based heating system for time-resolved in situ imaging. The system incorporates two 150W lasers at 980nm wavelength that are positioned approximately 180° apart. Two sets of laser heads, with different spot sizes (1 x 0.2 mm2 or 4 x 6 mm2 (h x v)) are available. The lasers are manipulated by x, y, and z linear stages such that a user-specified position can be heated. The lasers are also capable of moving as the sample moves. Temperatures are measured either with a pyrometer (non-contact infra-red (IR) temperature measuring device), accessing a temperature range of 350-1800°C or a thermocouple for temperatures from room temperature to 1200°C. Power to the lasers is dynamically controlled based on the temperature read-out from the pyrometer/thermocouple, and temperature profiles are determined based on user specifications. The current setup is capable of both near-isothermal and directional heating within these temperature ranges. The laser system is compatible with various beamline configurations and can be used in multiple imaging modalities. If an atmosphere different from air is required, a gas cover solution is available. Users are responsible for providing sample holders and setups that are compatible with the layout of the laser system. Please contact beamline staff well in advance if you would like to use this system such that we can optimally assist you in planning your experiments.
For further information, please see: J.L. Fife, M. Rappaz, M. Pistone, T. Celcer, G. Mikuljan, and M. Stampanoni. "Development of a laser-based heating system for in-situ synchrotron-based x-ray tomograpic microscopy", J. Synch. Rad. 19, 352-358, (2012). DOI: 10.1107/S0909049512003287