Scanning probe energy loss spectroscopy (SPELS) of structured surfaces

Bauer, Karl (2015). Scanning probe energy loss spectroscopy (SPELS) of structured surfaces. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

[img]
Preview
Bauer15PhD.pdf
PDF - Accepted Version

Download (15MB)

Abstract

In scanning probe energy loss spectroscopy (SPELS) an STM tip is used as a localised source of field emitted electrons by applying a high voltage. Energy loss measurements of the backscattered electrons provide spectroscopic information from the sample. The energy resolution is ≈0.3eV. In principle, a raster scan provides a spatially resolved image of these excitations. In this work, a new generation instrument is employed and developed in which the electrons are captured by an electrostatic lens system and focussed onto a multichannel detector using a 127° cylindrical-sector analyser. Additionally, a compact retarding field analyser has been built, which can be placed within 20mm of the tip position. Both detectors have been positioned at an angle of 7° to the surface plane, as most of the backscattered electrons are expected to emerge near the surface plane due to the high electric field between tip and sample. Ag and Au nanostructures on graphite designed for the SPELS instrument covering a large sample area have been prepared by electron beam lithography. The characteristics of the instrument have been measured, with high spatial resolution (down to 25nm) images showing various contrast mechanisms. Spatially resolved silver surface plasmon maps are presented.

Type of Work: Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)
Award Type: Doctorates > Ph.D.
Supervisor(s):
Supervisor(s)EmailORCID
Palmer, Richard E.UNSPECIFIEDUNSPECIFIED
Licence:
College/Faculty: Colleges (2008 onwards) > College of Engineering & Physical Sciences
School or Department: School of Physics and Astronomy
Funders: None/not applicable
Subjects: Q Science > QC Physics
URI: http://etheses.bham.ac.uk/id/eprint/6103

Actions

Request a Correction Request a Correction
View Item View Item

Downloads

Downloads per month over past year