Introducing WiFEL:
What Makes a FEL Unique?
When electrons change direction they produce light. If they are moving near the speed of light (relativistic), they can generate light of very high frequency—ultraviolet and x-rays, for example. In a free electron laser, an electron beam is sent through a long array of magnets (an undulator) that causes the beam to jiggle and emit light. If the electrons are close enough they will produce light in unison and make a laser beam of radiation—and this is the key difference with this next generation of lightsource. The resulting radiation can produce super-short pulses of light measured in quadrillionths of a second (femtoseconds).
These pulses allow researchers to study reactions as they are happening in real time. This will enable pursuit of answers to a wide range of research questions, many of which are currently unapproachable. Examples of the types of research that will be possible at WiFEL include those listed at right:
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Chemistry as it Happens
The ability to follow the dynamics of chemical reactions over extremely short time scales (femtoseconds) may enable chemists to better control reactions, which in turn may result in the creation of new products.
Biological Innovation
Better understanding of complex biological processes and critical advancements in disease research will be possible. Examples include studying photosynthesis in "snap shot" experiments to provide insight into artificial photosynthesis for energy production.
Nanofabrication
The ability to pursue selective fabrication of atomic clusters and other nanostructures a billionth of a meter in scale with specifically tailored medical or material properties. Also, finer patterning of features for next generation computer chips to help maintain U.S. leadership in the semiconductor industry.
Atomic and Molecular Physics
Possible research pursuits include fundamental atomic science, investigating processes taking place in the earth's atmosphere showing the interplay of sunlight with pollutants, and simulating the formation of matter in the early universe.
Catalysis
From manufacturing processes, studying enzymes in living systems, and geochemical cycles, the applications of catalysis innovation include biofuels, bioremediation, hydrogen economy, and industrial efficiency.
Advanced Materials
The enabling of time-of-flight methods, time resolved imaging, and inelastic X-ray scattering for materials research. These pursuits could lead to practical high-temperature superconductors for more efficient transmission of electricity; and exotic materials for high-speed, high-density magnetic storage devices, novel energy converters, environmental sensors, and more.
