Contact: Dr Arthur Graf – [email protected]
HarwellXPS offers X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) is a surface-sensitive technique (~10nm) that utilizes the photoelectric effect. In this method, a beam of X-rays is directed at the sample, causing it to emit electrons. The kinetic energy of these electrons is highly dependent on the chemical environment of their atoms, such as the atoms they are bonded to and their oxidation state. This makes XPS a valuable non-destructive tool for both qualitative and quantitative chemical composition analysis. It allows for the identification of the types of atoms present, their bonding relationships, and the quantification of these chemical states.
XPS can be used to answer questions such as: How is a dye chemically bound to a textile? What chemical changes occur in a pigment as it fades? In a structure experiencing corrosion, what are the chemical changes associated with the damage? How can the corrosion process be countered or slowed?
Capabilities: Elemental Composition (qualitative and quantitative analysis), Chemical Environment (oxidation state, chemical bonding), multi-technique (XPS-Raman, XPS-SEM, Cryo-XPS, angle-resolved XPS, etc).
Pros: Non-destructive, surface sensitive, depth profiling (with sputtering – damaging), chemical state analysis
Cons: Sample size (equipment limited), not-so bulk sensitive, sensitive to surface contamination.