Spectrum imaging of complex nanostructures using DualEELS: II. Absolute quantification using standards

Craven, A. J., Sala, B., Bobynko, J. and MacLaren, I. (2018) Spectrum imaging of complex nanostructures using DualEELS: II. Absolute quantification using standards. Ultramicroscopy, 186, pp. 66-81. (doi: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2017.12.011)

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Abstract

Nanometre-sized TixV(1−x)CyNz precipitates in an Fe20%Mn steel matrix with a thickness range from 14 to 40 nm are analysed using DualEELS. Their thicknesses, volumes and compositions are quantified using experimental binary standards and the process used to give robust results is described. Precisions of a few percent are achieved with accuracies that are estimated to be of a similar magnitude. Sensitivities are shown to be at 0.5–1 unit cells range in the thinnest matrix region, based on the assumption that a sub-lattice is fully populated by the element. It rises to the 1–2 unit cell range for the metals and 2–3 unit cells for the non-metal in the thickest matrix region. The sensitivities for Ti and N are greater than those for V and C respectively because the O K-edge from surface oxide needs to be separated from the V L2,3-edge, and the C K-edges from C in the matrix and amorphous C on the surface have to be separated from the C in the precipitate itself. Separation of the contributions from the bulk and the surface is demonstrated, showing that there is significant and detectable C in the matrix but no O, while there is significant O but little C in the surface oxide. Whilst applied to precipitates in steel in this work, the approach can be adapted to many multi-phase systems.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Sala, Bianca and MacLaren, Dr Ian and Craven, Professor Alan
Authors: Craven, A. J., Sala, B., Bobynko, J., and MacLaren, I.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
Journal Name:Ultramicroscopy
Publisher:Elsevier
ISSN:0304-3991
ISSN (Online):1879-2723
Published Online:13 December 2017
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V.
First Published:First published in Ultramicroscopy 186:66-81
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher.

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Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
530481Prec-Hi-Mn: Precipitation in high manganese steels.Ian MaclarenEuropean Commission (EC)RFSR-CT-2010-00018P&A - PHYSICS & ASTRONOMY