AILES beamline

The AILES beamline is designed for absorption spectroscopy, applied to the study of molecular and solid state systems. It covers the electromagnetic spectrum region ranging from the mid- to far- infrared (IR) or THz range (4000 to 5 cm^-1).

In addition to the increase in flux and brilliance made possible by synchrotron radiation, the beamline has been designed for a high level of mechanical stability to minimize noise. This was achieved using high stability optical mounts and chambers compatible with the interferometers’ optical throughput.

Radiation emitted in a magnetic dipole is collected, carried and refocused at the entrance of one of the three Michelson-type interferometers (FTIR). Generally, the high-resolution (0.0008cm^-1) Branch A is dedicated to rovibrational studies of molecular systems. While the mid-resolution (0.007cm^-1) Branch B is dedicated the the optical properties of condensed matter. The mid-resolution (0.007cm^-1) Branch C is for the study of electrochemical reactions and catalysis.

The three experimental branches are complemented by various sample environments, enabling studies of matter in gaseous, liquid and/or solid phase with samples subjected to different temperature or pressure parameters. There is also a dedicated laboratory for on-site sample preparation. Research projects on AILES concern different applications in physics, chemistry and biology.

The aim of the beamline is to answer the needs of scientific projects for which bridging the spectral gap between conventional IR and microwave radiation, combining high flux and stability over a broad-band source.