Auger Electron Spectroscopy 1

[Salvatio]

Does anyone knows what Auger Electron Spectroscopy is?
and where could I find more information regarding this matter?
Thank you.

 

[EdStainless]

Auger is a technique that uses a high voltage electron gun in a vac. The sample is bombarded with high energy ions, usually argon, in order to knock atoms loose from the surface. The atoms are analysed as they are knocked loose and you can get a chemistry vs depth profile.
Any good reference on analilitical methods that covers SEM and such should cover Auger.

It is a tricky tool. The atoms don't all come off of the surface with the same efficency and the detection system isn't perfect. There is a lot of data massaging required to get a real profile.

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Corrosion never sleeps, but it can be managed.

http://www.trenttube.com/Trent/tech_form.htm

 

[CoryPad]

Auger Electron Spectroscopy does not liberate atoms, it liberates electrons. Here is a description from an instrument manufacturer:

http://www.phi.com/genf.asp?ID=281

A Google search yields plenty of information.

Regards,

Cory

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[EdStainless]

No, you are actually removing metal. That is how you get a depth profile. You are detecting electrons. The surface becomes very rough because not all elemnets are removed at the same rate.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Corrosion never sleeps, but it can be managed.

http://www.trenttube.com/Trent/tech_form.htm

 

[swall]

CoryPad has it exactly right.Auger ELECTRONS are emitted.

 

[CoryPad]

EdStainless,

Auger Electron Spectroscopy as a technique does not liberate atoms, only electrons (and low energy ones at that). Depth profiling is accomplished by adding another technique, the most popular being ion milling (usually using Ar⁺ ions).

Regards,

Cory

Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.