Source: TimesofIndia

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Context

• On May 14, 2024, China inaugurated the High Energy Photon Source (HEPS), the first fourth-generation synchrotron light source in Asia.
• This state-of-the-art facility, located in Huairou, approximately 50 kilometers from Beijing, is set to revolutionize scientific research with the world's brightest synchrotron X-rays.

Details

Key Features of HEPS

Technical Specifications:

• Energy Levels:HEPS accelerates electrons to energies of 6 gigaelectron volts (GeV).
• Storage Ring:The facility features a 1.36-kilometer circumference storage ring.
• X-ray Brightness:Produces exceptionally bright X-rays capable of penetrating deeply into samples and revealing intricate details at the nanometer scale.

Time Resolution:

• Enhanced Measurement Speed:HEPS can perform measurements in hundreds of nanoseconds, significantly faster than the milliseconds required by third-generation synchrotrons like the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility.
• Comparison:The time resolution is 10,000 times better than that of third-generation synchrotrons, facilitating more precise and rapid experiments.

Applications and Impact:

• Scientific Research:
  • Broad Range:HEPS will support research in various fields, including biomedicine, condensed-matter physics, and materials science.
  • Beamlines:By 2025, the facility will offer 14 beamlines with plans to expand to 90, catering to diverse experimental needs.
• Biological and Medical Sciences:
  • Protein Structure Analysis:The powerful X-rays of HEPS will enable the study of smaller protein crystals, overcoming the limitations of older synchrotrons that required large samples.
  • Impact:This advancement is expected to significantly enhance research in structural biology and drug development.
• Industrial Applications:
  • Material Analysis:HEPS will facilitate detailed analysis of materials at the atomic level, benefiting sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science.

Global Context:

• Fourth-Generation Synchrotrons:
  • Elite Group:HEPS joins an exclusive group of fourth-generation synchrotrons, including Sweden’s MAX IV Laboratory, Sirius in Brazil, the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility’s Extremely Brilliant Source in France, and the Advanced Photon Source in Illinois, USA.
  • Technological Advancements:These facilities utilize multi-bend achromat lattice arrays to generate narrower and brighter X-ray beams than earlier generations.
• Scientific Collaboration:
  • International Impact:The high brightness and resolution of HEPS will attract researchers worldwide, fostering international collaborations and advancing global scientific knowledge.

About Synchrotron

• A synchrotron is a type of particle accelerator that produces intense beams of X-rays and other forms of electromagnetic radiation.
• These beams are used for a variety of applications in scientific research, medical treatments, and industrial processes.

Principles of Synchrotron Operation:

• Particle Acceleration:Synchrotrons accelerate charged particles, such as electrons, to nearly the speed of light. These particles are then made to travel in a circular path using magnetic fields.
• Radiation Emission:As the particles are deflected by magnetic fields, they emit synchrotron radiation, which is characterized by its high brightness and broad spectrum.

Components:

• Electron Source:Generates the electrons that are injected into the accelerator.
• Linear Accelerator (Linac):Initially accelerates the electrons to a high energy level.
• Booster Ring:Further accelerates the electrons before they are injected into the storage ring.
• Storage Ring:Maintains the electrons at a constant high energy while they circulate, emitting synchrotron radiation.
• Magnetic System:
  • Dipole Magnets:Bend the electron beam into a circular path.
  • Quadrupole and Sextupole Magnets:Focus and control the beam to maintain a stable orbit.

Radiation Properties:

• Brightness:Synchrotron light is extremely bright, allowing for detailed imaging and analysis.
• Spectrum:Covers a broad range from infrared to hard X-rays, suitable for diverse applications.
• Coherence:High degree of spatial and temporal coherence, useful for advanced imaging techniques.

Applications of Synchrotron Radiation:

• Scientific Research:
  • Materials Science:Investigating the structure and properties of materials at the atomic and molecular levels.
  • Biology and Medicine:Determining the structures of proteins and other biomolecules, aiding in drug design and medical diagnostics.
  • Chemistry:Studying chemical reactions and processes in real-time.
• Industrial Applications:
  • Microelectronics:Characterizing semiconductor materials and devices.
  • Pharmaceuticals:Analyzing drug compounds and formulations.
  • Environmental Science:Examining pollutants and their interactions with the environment.
• Medical Treatments:
  • Cancer Therapy:Synchrotron-generated X-rays are used in advanced radiation therapies to target tumors with high precision.
  • Imaging:Providing high-resolution images of tissues and organs, improving diagnostic capabilities.

Global Landscape of Synchrotron Facilities:

• Major Facilities:
  • European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF):Located in Grenoble, France, ESRF is one of the most advanced synchrotrons in the world.
  • Advanced Photon Source (APS):Based in the United States, APS is known for its high-energy X-rays used in a wide range of scientific studies.
  • Spring-8:Located in Japan, it is one of the largest synchrotrons, offering powerful beams for diverse research fields.
• Emerging Facilities:
  • MAX IV (Sweden):Focuses on providing high-brightness beams for cutting-edge research.
  • Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility (SSRF):A leading facility in China, contributing significantly to regional and global research.
• Research Collaborations:
  • International Partnerships:Many synchrotron facilities collaborate internationally, sharing resources and expertise to advance scientific research.
  • User Programs:Facilities often have programs that allow researchers from around the world to access their resources, fostering a global research community.

Sources:

TimesofIndia

PRACTICE QUESTION Q.  Synchrotrons are powerful tools that enable researchers to probe the fundamental structures of materials and biological systems with unprecedented detail. Comment. (250 words)