AES, XPS, RBS, NRA and laser raman studies of high temperature corrosion

This paper describes the basic principles of five surface and near surface analysis methods and explores ways they can be used to gather information relevant to oxidation and high temperature corrosion. The techniques discussed include: Auger electron spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, nuclear reaction analysis and laser Raman spectroscopy. Advantages and limitations of each method are highlighted. To illustrate the types of information available, four of the techniques have been used to examine the oxide formed on a nickel-chromium-thoria alloy. Other examples, original and from the literature, are used to demonstrate special characteristics of the techniques. Particular attention is devoted to the possibilities and limitations of high temperature studies in ultra high vacuum analytical systems