Diffraction limit of the x-ray refractive lenses

Abstract

A compound X-ray lenses is an array of microlenses with a common axis. The resolution limited by aberration and by diffraction. Aberration can be corrected by shaping refractive surfaces for the experiment geometry. Due to the small value of refractive index the ideal shape of the surface is similar to the parabola. Diffraction limit comes from single slit theory based on absorption aperture of the compound refractive lenses. X-rays passing through lenses form Airy pattern. The size of Airy disk depends on absorption in the material of the compound X-ray lens. Results of calculation of diffraction resolution limit for X-ray lenses are discussed.