Electron-Stimulated Desorption as a Tool for Studies of Chemisorption: A Review

Bombardment of solids by low-energy electrons (<500 eV) can cause various changes in the surface region, particularly if the surface contains an adsorbed layer. Electron bombardment can promote the desorption of energetic neutral and ionic fragments from the surface, can alter the bonding of surface species, and in some cases can cause decomposition of the surface region. These processes are termed electron-stimulated desorption (ESD) phenomena, and this review is primarily concerned with the use of ESD in studies of species adsorbed on surfaces. Topics covered include experimental methods, a theoretical discussion of physical mechanisms, and a detailed discussion of certain specific and well-studied adsorbate–substrate systems.