Modelling a Transition-Edge Sensor X-Ray Microcalorimeter Linear Array for Compton Profile Measurements and Energy Dispersive Diffraction

Abstract

Transition-edge sensors are a type of superconducting detector that offers high energy resolution based on their sharp resistance-temperature feature in the superconducting-to-normal transition. TES X-ray microcalorimeters have typically been designed and used for spectroscopic applications. In this work, we present a design optimization for a TES X-ray microcalorimeter array for high-energy scattering and diffraction measurements. In particular, Compton scattering provides information about the electron momentum distribution, while energy dispersive diffraction provides structural information about dense engineering materials. Compton scattering and energy dispersive diffraction experiments must be conducted in the very hard X-ray regime (~ 100 keV), demanding a high X-ray stopping power in the detector; therefore, an absorber with a large heat capacity is needed in conjunction with the TES. In addition, both applications would benefit from an array composed of parallel strips. We present a design for a TES X-ray microcalorimeter optimized for such applications. In particular, we model the longitudinal position dependence due to the finite thermal diffusion time in the absorber.