Three-dimensional Chemical Imaging of Embedded Nanoparticles using Atom Probe Tomography
Analysis of nanoparticles is often challenging especially when they are embedded in a matrix. Hence, we have used laser-assisted atom probe tomography (APT) to analyze the Au-nanoclusters synthesized in situ using ion beam implantation in single crystal MgO matrix. APT analysis along with scanning transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy (STEM-EDS) indicated that the nanoparticles have an average size ~ 8 - 12 nm. While it is difficult to analyze the composition of individual nanoparticles using STEM, APT analysis can give three dimensional compositions of the same. It was shown that the maximum Au-concentration in the nanoparticles increases with increasing particle size, with a maximum Au-concentration of up to 50%.
- Research Organization:
- Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States). Environmental Molecular Sciences Lab. (EMSL)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-76RL01830
- OSTI ID:
- 1040955
- Report Number(s):
- PNNL-SA-85299; 46696; 42690; KP1704020; TRN: US201211%%285
- Journal Information:
- Nanotechnology, 23(21):Article No. 215704, Vol. 23, Issue 21
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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