Anusheela Das

1 INTRODUCTION Portable micro-region elemental analysis is an emerging technology in the fields of geology and geochemistry. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy is highly advantageous for such micro-region studies, enabling non-destructive analyses. Special optics are necessary to achieve a highly focused beam. Various x-ray focusing optics have been developed such as doubly curved crystal (DCC) optics, Fresnel zone plates, monocapillary and polycapillary x-ray optics.

Molecularly derived single-site heterogeneous catalysts can bridge the understanding and performance gaps between conventional homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, guiding the rational design of next-generation catalysts. While impressive advances have been made with well-defined oxide supports, the structural complexity of other supports and the nature of the grafted surface species present an intriguing challenge.