Researchers Develop Conceptual Model to Interpret Charging Phenomena in Applied Physics

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Researchers from Linkoping University in Sweden have made significant progress in understanding charging phenomena during x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements of poorly conducting samples. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize the analysis of chemical bonding in a wide range of materials. According to the study, the development of a comprehensive theory of charging has been hindered by the complexity of instrument- and sample-determined variables involved in the process.

The research team, led by Grzegorz Greczynski, has focused on developing a conceptual model to interpret and discuss charging phenomena in specific cases. The study involved the use of two inherently insulating oxides, SiO2 and WO3, with varying thicknesses to serve as model systems for insulators with low and high x-ray-induced conductivity. The researchers demonstrated the key role of low-energy secondary electrons, x-ray attenuation length, sample work function, and insulator SE yield in the development of surface charging.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study aimed to describe the development of charging for the case of thin insulating films supported on conducting substrates.
  • The researchers chose SiO2 and WO3 as model systems for insulators with low and high x-ray-induced conductivity, with thicknesses varying by more than three orders of magnitude (from 1 to 5000 nm).
  • The study demonstrated the key role of low-energy secondary electrons, x-ray attenuation length, sample work function, and insulator SE yield in the development of surface charging.
  • A conceptual model was presented to serve as a starting point for the interpretation and discussion of charging phenomena in specific cases.
  • Financial supporters for the research include the Swedish Energy Agency, ACEV Foundation, Carl Tryggers Grant, Swedish Government Strategic Research Area in Materials Science on Advanced Functional Materials at Linköping University, and Vinnova.

Statistics:

  • The research involved the use of two inherently insulating oxides, SiO2 and WO3, with thicknesses varying by more than three orders of magnitude (from 1 to 5000 nm).
  • The study demonstrated the key role of low-energy secondary electrons (SEs) in the development of surface charging.
  • The research has been peer-reviewed and published in the Journal of Applied Physics.
  • The study was supported by several organizations, including the Swedish Energy Agency, ACEV Foundation, Carl Tryggers Grant, Swedish Government Strategic Research Area in Materials Science on Advanced Functional Materials at Linköping University, and Vinnova.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Researchers from Linkoping University Provide Details of New Studies and Findings in the Area of Applied Physics (Physics of Sample Charging During X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy: Insights From Experiments With Thin Film Insulators). Journal of Physics Research. October 21, 2025; p 644.
  • Journal of Applied Physics. Physics of Sample Charging During X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy: Insights From Experiments With Thin Film Insulators. 2025;138(9).
  • Aip Publishing. Journal of Applied Physics. 1305 Walt Whitman Rd, Ste 300, Melville, NY 11747-4501, USA.