Real time x-ray diffraction measurements in shocked solids at the Advanced Photon Source

The Advanced Photon Source provides a number of benefits (high photon numbers, pulsed time structure, and flexible beam properties) to examine the real time x-ray diffraction response of shocked crystals. However, shock wave experiments at a synchrotron facility pose a number of operational challenges, including the coupling of a shock wave driver to the beam line, and appropriate synchronization/gating of detectors. This talk will describe experimental plans and developments underway to utilize either a monochromatic or white beam for x-ray measurements in shocked solids. A compact launcher to achieve impact velocities of $\sim $1km/s will be presented. Results of ambient measurements, in preparation for the shock experiments planned this summer, will be presented. Work supported by DOE.