This article discusses the current status of X-ray sources (tubes and power supplies) used in handheld X-ray fluorescence instruments. It outlines the basics of the tube and high-voltage power supply (HVPS) design and the functionality of X-ray sources designed specifically for handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Further, the testing methodologies of the tubes and power supplies are discussed. Finally, the selection criteria for the X-ray source for common applications are presented.

Volume Manufacturing of Metalens Moxtek manufactures high-performance metalenses for visible and IR wavelengths. Moxtek offers a full solution, including design, fabrication, measurement, and packaging capabilities. Our metalens design team can optimize the lens design to match custom applications. Our foundry service bridges the gap from research to production by offering prototyping and volume manufacturing of metalens. Metalens benefits include reduced track length and weight in optical systems. They can have more design flexibility, added functionalities, shorter focal lengths and smaller diameters compared to traditional optics. Moxtek has overcome various challenges associated with scaling up visible wavelength metalens manufacturing to production volumes. We have developed efficient methods to create masters combined with our existing NIL processing to provide a full solution approach to volume production. Click here to view the datasheet  

Moxtek’s Reflective Circular Polarizing BeamSplitter (RCPBS) provides a solution for many innovative optical applications. The Moxtek RCPBS family of products can be used to increase optical path length without increasing physical length, isolate or sample back reflections and other potential applications.

NanoStructure Solutions™ White Paper MOXTEK has been producing functional nanostructured optical components for over 20 years. We offer high volume wafer replication of various nanostructure devices, including: microlens arrays, waveguides, patterned metasurfaces, Diffractive Optical Elements (DOEs), photonics crystals, and biosensor arrays. These devices are used for imaging, illumination, and display systems for a variety of applications including: automotive, medical/dental imaging, camera systems, and many others. Moxtek collaborates with customers to verify designs and create solutions for high volume manufacturing. We provide options for prompt design iterations and print optimization. Moxtek uses Statistical Process Control (SPC) monitoring of post-print Critical Dimension (CD) repeatability as it is critical for quality control.

Nanoimprint Lithography (NIL) has demonstrated the ability to replicate nano-structures within extremely tight tolerances. The process concept and lab sample implementation has been around for a long time. Scaling up has introduced a number of barriers that have taken some time to overcome. In this paper, we discuss the implementation of full wafer NIL in to an established Wire-Grid Polarizer (WGP) manufacturing line. In doing this we have demonstrated that NIL can be utilized effectively to mass produce various nano-structures that are challenging and cost prohibitive for conventional lithography techniques.

MOXTEK (Orem, UT) is excited to celebrate the landing of the Perseverance rover in the Mars Jezero crater on February 18th 2021. This landing will be watched by many people around the world with anticipation as this new high‐tech rover is delivered to our red planet neighbor. Moxtek employees will also be anxiously watching as this rover, with three Moxtek products, prepares for a safe landing. Please celebrate this landing with us on February 18th @ 1:55pm MST (Utah time).

The basic premise of XRF is that high energy x-rays are aimed at a sample and then the atoms in the sample may absorb an x-ray. This ionizes the atom by displacing an electron from one of the shells close to the atom. The next step is for an electron from an outer shell to fall into the shell vacancy, emitting the excess energy in the form of characteristic x-ray radiation. The energy of the x-ray is dependent on the energy levels of the shells participating in the process and therefore is “characteristic” to the material of the sample. A critical detail for the x-ray source used for XRF is that x-ray source needs to produce x-rays at energies higher than absorption edge of the element in order to ionize the atom. Every element has different absorption edges, just as they have different characteristic x-ray lines. The x-ray source needs to be tuned in various ways for effective detection of different elements. There are three basic methods for tuning the spectrum-shape from the x-ray source: • Setting the high voltage on the x-ray tube. • Putting an x-ray filter between the x-ray source and the sample. • Selection of the anode material on the x-ray tube. This report will focus on the selection of the anode material on the x-ray tube. For additional information about setting the high voltage or selecting a filter please go to www.moxtek.com and select the “Consult our Experts” option in the bottom right of the page.

ProFlux wire-grid polarizers are made of mirror quality aluminum patterned on glass wafers. The size and structure of the grid makes it very susceptible to physical damage and contamination. Because of the fragile nature of the wire-grid, it is necessary to follow proper handling guidelines. Damage to the wire-grid from mishandling is not covered in the warranty and Moxtek will not refund parts damaged from mishandling. Follow the handling and care information below to prevent damage to the wire-grid surface ensuring consistent performance.