The impact of the Debye-Waller factor on XAS

X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and EXAFS are essential tools for analyzing the local structure of materials. The Debye-Waller factor, which measures the impact of thermal vibrations of neighboring atoms, is crucial to the interpretation of EXAFS data. At room temperature, these vibrations can broaden EXAFS peaks, limiting measurement accuracy. In contrast, low-temperature studies, made possible by cryogenics, can freeze these vibrations and improve spectral resolution. This review highlights the importance of temperature management for accurate structural results, and explores the prospects for future technological improvements.