Characterization of x-ray polycapillary optics with a high-resolution x-ray optical bench

We have constructed an x-ray optical test bench which has been used to characterize transmission and manufacturing artifacts associated with monolithic polycapillary optics of the Kumakhov type. The test bench incorporates a conventional 8 keV x-ray source and a sample holder which is capable of high precision translation and rotation. Both non-imaging and imaging detectors are used, including a magnifying x-ray camera capable of resolving the transmission of individual capillary channels in a polycapillary bundle. We demonstrate the use of the bench to determine imperfections in the fabrication of early prototype capillary optics. The images illustrate the anomalies associated with the forming of the capillary bundles, the effects of extended exposure to synchrotron radiation, and the x-ray transmission lateral uniformity. We also show the intense focused beams obtained with complete optics.