Study of a possible X-ray sensor based on the Plasmon Surface Resonance for the next generation of instruments

Abstract

peer reviewedWith the new generation of X-ray space observatories, such as IXO in preparation, we explore a new technology in order to improve the spectral resolution and the sensitivity of future instruments. We have studied the possibility to create a sensor based on the Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), already used in chemistry and biomedical applications, and have determined the preliminary constraints on its size, energy resolution and working temperature