PNNL

Abstract

Nanostructured materials are increasingly subject to nearly every type of chemical and physical analysis possible. Because of their small feature size there is a significant focus on tools with high spatial resolution. Since, in addition, because of their high surface area, it is natural to characterize nanomaterials using tools designed to analyze surfaces. Regardless of the approach, nanostructured materials present a variety of obstacles to useful analysis. Specimen handling, contamination, environmental conditions and time can be important for analysis of many materials but are of increased concern for nanomaterials. Impacts of shape and stability of nanostructured materials are less explored. In a program focused on iron nanoparticles we use a combination of tools for routine analysis including XPS, TEM, and XRD and apply other methods as needed to obtain essential information.