Nuclear microprobe

Characterization techniques based on light ion beams with an energy range of 0.5-3.5 MeV derive either from the interactions of ions with the nuclei or with the surrounding electrons. The average penetration depth of ions in the material is around one hundred micrometers which allows the analysis of a wide variety of samples. Several analysis techniques can be implemented giving rise to quantitative multi-elemental analyzes (detection limit from 1-1000 ppm according to the technique) using a micrometer beam (1-2 µm). The required analysis times are between 10 minutes and 2 hours depending on the nature of the materials.

Main technical features

  • RBS (Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry) et NRA (Nuclear Reaction Analysis)

 

→ Information on nature, stoichiometry and the depth distribution of the element in the material

→ Very good isotope sensitivity

  • PIXE (Particle Induced X-ray Emission)

→ analyze of elements with atomic number Z ≥ 15 (better sensibility for 20-40 then Z≥75)

→ sensibility 10 ppm

  • PIGE (Particle Induced g-ray Emission)

→ analyze elements with atomic number 3 ≤ Z ≤ 30

→ sensibility 10 ppm

  • ERDA (Elastic Recoil Diffusion Analysis)

→ hydrogen profile (surface analysis 100 nm)

→ sensibility 10 ppm