SenSiC SiC free-standing membrane I₀ monitors are designed for continuous, real-time measurement of the incident X-ray flux in synchrotron radiation beamlines.
The device provides a compact solid-state solution for beam intensity monitoring, data normalization and beamline diagnostics, while preserving high transmission of the incoming X-ray beam.
Based on ultra-thin silicon carbide membrane technology, SenSiC I₀ monitors combine measurable photocurrent response, high radiation tolerance, and reduced beam perturbation in a single transmission-mode diagnostic device.
Designed for continuous I₀ normalization
Many X-ray experiments require a stable and reliable measurement of the incident photon flux. Variations in source intensity, optics transmission or beamline conditions can directly affect the quality and reproducibility of spectroscopic, imaging and scanning measurements.
A transmission-mode I₀ monitor placed upstream of the sample allows the experimental signal to be normalized to the actual incoming beam intensity in real time.
SenSiC free-standing membrane monitors are designed for this purpose: they generate a measurable current proportional to the incident X-ray beam while allowing most of the beam to continue towards the experiment.
Key advantages
SenSiC I₀ monitors are designed to provide reliable beam intensity information without adding unnecessary complexity to the beamline, offering:
- continuous in-line beam intensity monitoring;
- high X-ray transmission;
- compact design;
- low perturbation of the transmitted beam;
- compatibility with vacuum beamline integration;
- measurable photocurrent response for real-time normalization.
Features
The free-standing membrane has a granted circular diameter from 3 mm to 5 mm or with square/rectangular apertures, up to 5×5 mm².
SiC I₀ beam monitors are realized with high surface uniformity and controlled thickness variations, with a standard deviation of 0.05% on the average transmission.
Available membrane thicknesses
SenSiC free-standing membrane XBPMs are available in different standard thicknesses to match the transmission, sensitivity, and mechanical requirements of each beamline application.
Standard membrane thicknesses include 1 µm, 2 µm, 10 µm, 20 µm and 35 µm. Thinner membranes are typically preferred when maximum X-ray transmission is required, while thicker membranes can provide higher signal generation and increased mechanical robustness.
Contact us to explore the better solution for you according to the photon-energy range, expected flux, beam size and required monitoring performance.
In-House Characterization
Each SiC free-standing membrane XBPM is characterized in-house using a 5.4 keV X-ray source to verify proper device operation before delivery. This quality-control step allows us to assess the sensor response under controlled irradiation conditions and to provide customers with essential information on the device behavior, including signal generation, uniformity, and operating recommendations. As a result, each customer receives not only a sensor, but a tested diagnostic component with the technical data needed to support integration, and operation in the target beamline environment.
What’s Included
All our sensors are mounted on a 3×4 cm² aluminum-core circuit boards for easy connection, finished in FR4 or ceramic, to adapt to every specific need. The electrical connection is granted by pre-soldered UMC contacts and by UMC-SMA cables included in the package. The whole product is air- as well as UHV- (10⁻⁸ mbar) compatible.
Mounted sensors are also available with plastic or metal covers to avoid damaging the sensor surface or the wire bondings during handling and installation.
Publications about this technology
| Nida, S., et al. Synchrotron Radiation 26.1 (2019): 28-35. DOI: 10.1107/S1600577518014248 |
Trovato, G, et al. Synchrotron Radiation 32.1 (2025). DOI: 10.1107/S1600577524010646 |
| Medina, E., et al. Synchrotron Radiation 32.6 (2025). DOI: 10.1107/S1600577525007362 |
Trovato, G., et al. Journal of Instrumentation 20.12 (2025). DOI: 10.1088/1748-0221/20/12/C12005 |
SenSiC monitoring solutions can be supplied as standalone sensors or as complete diagnostic units. The scope of supply can include the SiC free-standing membrane sensor, vacuum-compatible integration components and low-noise readout electronics.
Each configuration can be adapted to the target photon-energy range, beam size, flux level, vacuum interface and readout requirements.
