Multiple X-Ray Diffraction in Crystals: Application to Two-Dimensional Imaging and Low-Loss Transmission

In addition to imaging, simultaneous diffraction of x rays within crystals makes possible other applications. One involves the substantial reduction of x-ray absorption along directions that satisfy diffraction conditions with respect to several sets of crystal planes. We have demonstrated such reduction in absorption for various cases of simultaneous diffraction in germanium. Such reduction can be crucial for the successful operation of a gamma-ray laser.