Empyrean XAS

Add local chemical insight to your multipurpose X-ray platform

X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is now fully integrated into Empyrean.

Empyrean XAS brings laboratory-based XANES and EXAFS measurements to the X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray scattering, and imaging techniques of the Empyrean platform. By enabling multiple structural techniques on a single instrument, Empyrean connects long-range structure, nanoscale organization, and local chemical environments within one consistent workflow.

One platform. Multiple structural perspectives.

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From diffraction to spectroscopy, without switching platforms

Empyrean has always been designed as a flexible, multipurpose X-ray platform. With integrated X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) capability, more researchers can now investigate materials across multiple structural length scales using a single instrument.

With Empyrean XAS, you can:

  • Determine long-range crystal structure using diffraction
  • Investigate nanoscale organization using scattering techniques
  • Capture structural imaging data
  • Probe local chemical environments using XAS technology

Because all techniques are performed on the same platform, measurements can be carried out under consistent experimental conditions, improving comparability between datasets.

Deeper material understanding. Simpler laboratory workflows.

Learn more: Application of X-ray absorption spectroscopy with a laboratory X-ray powder diffractometer (article)

Understand structure beyond the crystal lattice

XAS provides direct insight into the local chemical environment of specific elements. By measuring how X-rays are absorbed near an element’s absorption edge, XAS enables:

  • Identification of oxidation states
  • Determination of coordination geometry
  • Measurement of interatomic distances
  • Investigation of short-range order

Empyrean performs XAS measurements using a dedicated transmission configuration designed for stable and reproducible energy scanning.

X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) provides information about oxidation state and electronic structure close to the absorption edge, while extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) probes short-range atomic ordering at higher energies.

When combined with diffraction and scattering techniques, XAS enables researchers to relate Local chemistry → Nanoscale structure → Long-range crystallography within a single experimental workflow.

Quantitative insight with confidence

Empyrean XAS delivers high-quality, reproducible spectral data suitable for both qualitative and quantitative analysis.

High energy resolution enables detailed XANES analysis, including pre-edge features sensitive to oxidation state and coordination environment. 

At higher energies, the system provides a wide k-range suitable for quantitative EXAFS analysis, enabling the extraction of structural parameters such as coordination numbers and interatomic distances.

Measurements are performed in transmission geometry, providing a robust and reproducible route to quantitative structural interpretation across a wide range of materials.

Broad elemental and energy coverage

Empyrean XAS supports measurements across a wide portion of the periodic table, enabling investigation of both:

  • K-edges of mid-Z elements (such as Ti, Fe, Ni, and Mo)
  • L-edges of heavier elements (such as Ba and Ce)

With an accessible energy range of: 4–20+ keV

This capability supports analysis of materials spanning energy storage, catalysis, functional materials, and environmental systems.

Measure multiple absorption edges within a single experiment for efficient characterization of complex materials containing multiple elements.

Multi-edge capability for complex materials

Many advanced materials rely on interactions between multiple elements. With Empyrean XAS, you can measure multiple absorption edges within a single experiment.

Unlock efficient analysis of complex materials such as:

  • Multi-component catalysts
  • Battery electrodes
  • Functional oxides
  • Multi-element alloys

By capturing multiple edges sequentially without repeated instrument reconfiguration, researchers can evaluate relationships between elements more efficiently.

The result? Faster experimentation and more comprehensive datasets.

Integrated within the Empyrean platform

Empyrean XAS forms part of the broader Empyrean multipurpose platform.

With the PreFIX concept, measurement configurations can be exchanged quickly and reproducibly. This enables transitions between diffraction, scattering, imaging, and spectroscopy without complex realignment procedures.

This modularity allows complementary techniques to be combined within a single workflow, supporting studies that link long-range structural information with local chemical insight.

One instrument. Simpler sample handling. Better experimental reproducibility.

Built for real experimental workflows

Empyrean XAS is supported by integrated software designed to guide you through the complete measurement process, from setup to interpretation.

Key workflow capabilities include:

  • Automated data acquisition
  • Scan alignment and normalization
  • Detector correction and background subtraction
  • Pre-edge and post-edge fitting
  • Spectral processing and data curation

These tools support both first-time users and experienced researchers, enabling efficient and reliable data processing with minimal manual intervention.

By streamlining the workflow, the system reduces the time between measurement and interpretation.

Complement synchrotrons, on your own schedule

Synchrotron facilities remain essential for specialized measurements, but their limited availability can restrict routine characterization and method development.

Empyrean XAS provides laboratory-based access to high-quality XANES and EXAFS measurements, enabling:

  • Routine material screening
  • Method optimization
  • Exploratory research
  • Pre-synchrotron experiment preparation

Comparisons with synchrotron measurements demonstrate strong agreement in spectral features, supporting reliable laboratory-based analysis.

Fast-track your experimental cycles with more flexible research planning.

Related resources

Applications across advanced materials research

Energy storage

Study oxidation-state changes and local structural evolution during battery charge and discharge cycles.

Track redox processes and monitor structural changes in electrode materials.

Catalysis

Investigate active sites, oxidation states, and reaction pathways in heterogeneous catalysts.

Understand structure–performance relationships in catalytic systems.

Advanced materials

Characterize short-range order, defects, and electronic structure in functional materials.

Investigate nanoscale effects that influence mechanical, electronic, or optical properties.

Environmental and geological science

Analyze trace elements and chemical transformations in complex materials.

Study speciation and transformation processes relevant to environmental systems.

Smart Manager: Unleash the potential of your data

Until now, instrument data has too often been stuck in manual records, spreadsheets or site-specific servers. By connecting your Empyrean to our Smart Manager and continually analyzing instrument data in the cloud, you can unleash its full potential.

Remote monitoring

Specification

Techniques XANES, EXAFS
Energy range 4-20+ keV
Measurement mode Transmission
Energy resolution Down to 1.3 eV @ 8 keV
Resolving power Up to E/ΔE ≈ 6150
Accessible edges K-edges of 3d transition metals and L-edges of heavy elements
Environment Ambient air operation
Operando studies Supported
Measurement time Minutes to hours

Manuals

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Software

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Support

Solutions to maximize the return on your investment

To assure that your instrument remains in top condition and performs on the highest level, Malvern Panalytical offers a wide range of services. Our expertise and support services assure an optimal functioning of your instrument.

Support

Service for a lifetime

  • Phone and remote support
  • Preventive maintenance and checkups
  • Flexible Customer Care Agreements
  • Performance certificates
  • Hardware and software upgrades
  • Local and global support

Expertise

Adding value to your processes 

  • Sample preparation development/optimization
  • Analytical methodologies 
  • Turnkey solutions for XRD 
  • Operations via IQ/OQ/PQ, quality assurance (GLP, ISO17025) or round robins/inter laboratory studies
  • Consultancy services

Training and education

  • Training on-site or at our competence centers
  • Broad range of basic and advanced courses on products, applications and software

Publications

Want to know more about Empyrean XAS?

Want to know more about Empyrean XAS?

X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) integrated into the renowned Empyrean system. Add local chemical insight to your multipurpose X-ray platform. Get in touch with our experts today to find out more.

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