Patent ID: 6711233
Filing Date: 2004-03-23
Classification: H01J,H05G

Abstract:
A method for generating X-ray radiation, comprising the steps of:(i) forming a target jet by urging a liquid substance under pressure through an outlet opening, the target jet propagating through an area of interaction, (ii) directing at least one electron beam onto the target jet in the area of interaction such that the electron beam interacts with the target jet to generate X-ray radiation, and (iii) controlling the electron beam to interact with the jet at an intensity such that Bremsstrahlung and characteristic line emission is generated in the X-ray region wherein the target jet is formed to have a sufficiently high propagation speed in the area of interaction in order for the emission to be generated essentially without heating the jet to a plasma-forming temperature, the propagation speed being at least 10 m/s in the area of interaction.