Near ambient pressure XPS with a conventional X‐ray source

The Leibniz‐Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften–ISAS–e.V. recently acquired a new XPS system from SPECS for measurements at near atmospheric pressures and using a conventional laboratory X‐ray source (Al Kα and Mg Kα). This allows the in situ analysis of gas–surface interactions under reaction conditions to study, for example, heterogeneous catalysis and corrosion. Furthermore, with operating pressures of up to approximately 0.5 mbar, it is possible to set up a water atmosphere that stabilises biological molecules, for example, lipid bilayer films on metal surfaces. By using a conventional laboratory X‐ray source, the radiation damage to these molecules can be minimised. Measurements to establish optimal parameters for operation of the instrument have been completed, and the results are discussed. Future modifications to improve photon and electron flux are presented. The first experimental data obtained with this instrument are also shown.