Project Info
Multi-Messenger X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Xerxes Steirer
ksteirer@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
This project seeks to combine two high powered materials science analytical methods, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy & residual gas analysis (RGA) in automated data processes with the goal of applying these to resolve time evolved chemical transformations in a widely useful oxide material. XPS provides information about material surface composition, elemental abundance, chemical bonding and electronic structure. RGA measures gas phase composition of molecular fragments which are emitted from the sample surface. When combined in real time, the mechanisms that drive changes to the surface composition and loss of material from the surface can be revealed. These types of experimental methods are important for fields such as catalysis, water splitting, fuel cells, solar materials and many more!
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Engineer the tools of scientific discovery.
RGA - https://www.mksinst.com/n/residual-gas-analysis
XPS - https://www.thermofisher.com/us/en/home/materials-science/xps-technology.html
Mines Environmental XPS Facility - https://www.mines.edu/exps/
Primary Contacts:
Xerxes Steirer, ksteirer@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Strong python coding skills. Basic physics and chemistry background.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
5
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
Vacuum science, materials genome familiarity, RGA, XPS, electron spectroscopy, surface science, applied physics and chemistry. Also literature searching, code refactoring, object oriented programming, data analysis. Possibly machine learning.
MENTORING PLAN
Weekly meetings virtual and in person which include, coding sessions and trainings, literature discussions on readings, review and feedback on progress.
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Sophomore
Junior
Senior