Because of the large number of X-ray photons which will be emitted per unit solid angle and wavelength interval, laser generated plasmas have good prospects as X-ray sources for time-resolved diffraction experiments in solid state research. Starting from this a modified two-crystal diffractometer will be described, which uses the particular advantages of laser plasmas as X-ray flash sources. Requirements for the source will be determined and discussed.
Laser generated plasma as a source for real time studies in X-ray crystal research: Part I: Fundamental remarks about source characteristics and requirements