A Versatile Approach to Electrochemical Ambient-Pressure X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy: Application to a Complex Model Catalyst.

We present a new technique for investigating complex model electrocatalysts by means of electrochemical ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (AP-XPS). Using a specially designed miniature capillary device, we prepared a three-electrode electrochemical cell in a thin-layer configuration and analyzed the active electrode/electrolyte interface by using "tender" X-ray synchrotron radiation. We demonstrate the potential of this versatile method by investigating a complex model electrocatalyst.

Quantification of the Activator and Sensitizer Ion Distributions in NaYF :Yb , Er Upconverting Nanoparticles Via Depth-Profiling with Tender X-Ray Photoemission.

The spatial distribution and concentration of lanthanide activator and sensitizer dopant ions are of key importance for the luminescence color and efficiency of upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs). Quantifying dopant ion distributions and intermixing, and correlating them with synthesis methods require suitable analytical techniques. Here, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth-profiling with tender X-rays (2000-6000 eV), providing probe depths ideally matched to UCNP sizes, is used to measure the depth-dependent concentration ratios of Er to Yb , [Er ]/[Yb ], in three types of UCNPs prepared using different reagents and synthesis methods.

Germanium terminated (1 0 0) diamond.

An ordered germanium terminated (1 0 0) diamond surface has been formed and characterised using a combination of low energy electron diffraction and synchrotron-based core level photoemission spectroscopy. A number of preparation methods are explored, in each case inducing a two domain [Formula: see text] surface reconstruction. The surface becomes saturated with bonded germanium such that each [Formula: see text] unit cell hosts 1.