THAILAND, January 2019 – Institute of Advanced Technology (ITMA) gained access to the facilities at the Synchrotron Light Research Institute (SLRI), Thailand through the ITMA Mobility Program from 21 to 31 January 2019.  A total of 17 staff and students, led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lim Hong Ngee participated in this program. SLRI is located at the Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand, which is about 250 km away from Bangkok. This institution is a public organization under the Ministry of Science and Technology of the Royal Thai Government and operates the first synchrotron facility in Thailand. They provide numerous measurement systems such as XPS, XAS and PEEM to facilitate researchers from local and international institution or industry.

The participants were provided a thorough description on the synchrotron light radiation system. We were given a tour around the experiment hall, which consists of eight beamlines.  We were granted to access to Beamline 3, which is Photoemission Electron Spectroscopy (PES), and Beamline 5, which is X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS). The main purpose of this program was to learn about the synchrotron facilities and to conduct sample analysis. In addition, this program also aims to strengthen the relationship between the two parties that was established last year.

A total of 180 samples were analysed with the help of SLRI scientists. Participants not only had the opportunity to learn about the testing system theoretically but also hands on data analysis and graph fitting technique, which is essential for publication. They were assisted by scientists, Dr. Hideki Nakajima and Dr. Narong Chanlek.

Besides that, participants were also exposed to the history and culture of local people. They had an opportunity to visit Sirindhon Learning Park consisting of the Museum of Ancient Thai Technology, Museum of Thai Study and Butterfly Garden. In conclusion, the participants gained new knowledge and collaboration is enhanced between the two institutions through this programme. This is the initial phase to forging a close research network and will be strengthened by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) soon. The participants were grateful to Dr. Wutthikrai Busayaporn, who was the program coordinator for warm hospitality during the stay.

Date of Input: 20/03/2019 | Updated: 18/05/2023 | nursyahirah