Introduction to X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy

X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (XAFS) contains original information on the local properties of materials. After a general introduction to the X-ray absorp- tion process, the attention is here focussed on the extended fine structure (EXAFS). The main approximations that lead to a relatively simple and effective interpreta- tion of EXAFS spectra are reviewed; the peculiar effects of thermal disorder are stressed. The basic instrumentation for EXAFS measurements is described and the most important procedures of data analysis are presented.