Spectromicroscopy and coherent diffraction imaging: focus on energy materials applications

Current and future capabilities of X‐ray spectromicroscopy are discussed based on coherence‐limited imaging methods which will benefit from the dramatic increase in brightness expected from a diffraction‐limited storage ring (DLSR). The methods discussed include advanced coherent diffraction techniques and nanoprobe‐based real‐space imaging using Fresnel zone plates or other diffractive optics whose performance is affected by the degree of coherence. The capabilities of current systems, improvements which can be expected, and some of the important scientific themes which will be impacted are described, with focus on energy materials applications. Potential performance improvements of these techniques based on anticipated DLSR performance are estimated. Several examples of energy sciences research problems which are out of reach of current instrumentation, but which might be solved with the enhanced DLSR performance, are discussed.