X-rays are generated by the apparatus shown here. A pulsed laser (70 ps pulse-width) shines on the photocathode, which is a material that emits electrons when exposed to light. A 30-kV voltage accelerates the electrons toward the tungsten anode, which liberates a short pulse of x-rays when it is struck. These x-rays strike the powdered sample, and the resulting scintillation light is detected with a photomultiplier tube (not shown).
A closeup of the tabletop system showing the vial of powdered scintillator material.