Concept for a single-shot mid-infrared spectrometer using synchrotron radiation

Several attempts have been made to extend time-resolved mid infrared spectroscopy to higher time resolution. Such methods are either limited to specific samples that are cyclic and therefore allow the reaction under investigation to be repeated multiple times in the same manner, or they lack spectral resolution or sufficient signal-to noise ratio. Here, we report on a single-shot spectrometer concept which overcomes the aforementioned limitations utilizing fast linear detector arrays and highly brilliant infrared synchrotron radiation. The spectrometer may find applications, beside others, for the investigation of irreversible cascades of structural alterations in proteins.