The application of x-rays and electrochemistry to materials analysis

The combination of surface science, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy in particular, with electrochemical studies provides a powerful complementary method for the analysis of materials, as well as a useful way to adjust and monitor the surface properties of the material. Examples of such an application are provided by studies of carbon fibers and other materials including zirconium boride, aluminum and its alloys, and tungsten. The electrochemical behavior of electrodes such as aluminum and tungsten under a variety of conditions are shown to be very surface dependent. The value of a special in situ electrochemical cell that can be incorporated into the vacuum system of a surface spectrometer is discussed