X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is a widely used technique for analyzing the surface layers of semiconductors, metals, plastics, and fibers. The method is used to determine the surface elemental composition and chemical binding states of atoms.
Some of our XPS analysis services
- Fast turnaround times
- Personal service from method experts
- Competitive prices
- Result accuracy guarantee
What is XPS and what is it used for?
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy is a technique suitable for analyzing the chemical composition of materials for all elements except hydrogen (H) and Helium (He). XPS can provide the elemental composition and the binding state of elements at the surface of a sample (about 9 nm probing depth) or in-depth with depth profiling. The technique is considered non-destructive and allows the analysis of conductive as well as non-conductive dry powders and dry solid materials.
XPS is widely used in the research and development of a wide range of materials, such as semiconductors, plastics, metals, and organic fibers. The examination of material surfaces is crucial to understanding corrosion rates, catalytic activity, adhesive properties, wettability, contact potential, and failure mechanisms of the material.
How does XPS work?
In XPS, the sample is irradiated with X-rays (photons) which will generate the emission of electrons from different atomic levels of the material as long as the X-rays are of higher energy than the electrons' binding energy. These photo-emitted electrons in a given kinetic energy range are then counted to create the XPS spectrum.
The kinetic energy makes it possible to determine the atoms present in the material, as well as their environment (discrimination between C-C, C-O, or C=O bonds, for example).
The count of electrons allows the determination of the relative atomic concentration of each atom (relative to carbon in most cases, which is a natural contamination in all materials).
Sample requirements and preparation
Samples should be dry to be analyzed by XPS since the analysis chamber for most tools is under ultra-high vacuum.
Solid samples, powders, coatings, or thin films are suitable for the analysis. Usually, preferred sample dimensions are about 1x1 cm, but the analysis of larger or smaller samples can be discussed with our experts.
Specifications of a typical XPS analysis
Probing depth: 3 - 9 nm
Destructivity: non-destructive
Depth profiling: yes
Information: elemental composition and binding state
Sample size: about 1x1 cm
Detection limit: 0.1 - 1 at.%
Elements detected: all except H and He
Need an analysis?
Measurlabs offers XPS testing services for various sample types, including thin films, metals, and organic materials. Please contact us through the form below to request a quote. Our experts are also always happy to help if you have any questions about your sample or its suitability for the method.
Suitable sample matrices
- Solid samples
- Ultra-thin films, barrier layers and coatings
- Semiconductors
- Microelectronics and microcircuits
- Plastics and plastic coatings
- Metals
- Glass
- Fibers and fiber composites
Ideal uses of XPS
- Discovering surface impurities of materials in the semiconductor, metal, plastic, glass and fiber industries
- Examination of the surface’s interactions with the environment or other materials to improve manufacturing processes
- Determination of the thin-film stability of films and coatings
- Examination of reactions like corrosion and oxidation and the effects of nitriding and carburizing in the metal industry
- Fatigue and failure tests in the metal and motor industries
- Examination of the effects of soldering and welding processes in the microelectronics and metal industries
- Study of semiconductors in microelectronics and microcircuits
- Examination of the effects of different lubricants, adhesives and cleaners on materials in the chemical industry
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Frequently asked questions
Measurlabs offers a variety of laboratory analyses for product developers and quality managers. We perform some of the analyses in our own lab, but mostly we outsource them to carefully selected partner laboratories. This way we can send each sample to the lab that is best suited for the purpose, and offer high-quality analyses with more than a thousand different methods to our clients.
When you contact us through our contact form or by email, one of our specialists will take ownership of your case and answer your query. You get an offer with all the necessary details about the analysis, and can send your samples to the indicated address. We will then take care of sending your samples to the correct laboratories and write a clear report on the results for you.
Samples are usually delivered to our laboratory via courier. Contact us for further details before sending samples.