It's known that some people either students or researchers ask me to do an energy correction to C1s signal their spectrums; and that's something I usually do but in some cases it's not that easy to do since the C1s spectrum appears with multiple peaks as the example I attach in here. So, what should I take in consideration in order to properly choose the right peak to shift the signal to? I tend to choose the very first peak (from right to left) no matter it's not the tallest one, but my doubt is if I'm doing it right or am I wrong in doing it that way.
Thanks in advance.
Dear Luis Gerardo Silva Vidaurri,
The binding energy correction in that particular case will depend on the type of sample you have. From what I see in the spectrum you are measuring cellulose or some type of polymer, if for example you use the most intense part of the signal to make the correction you could be making a mistake since the signals below 284eV would not make chemical sense in your sample, since carbides appear at those energies, unless I have had an incorrect interpretation of the shape of your spectrum and it is indeed a carbide. In case of using the signal that is at a lower binding energy, you must take care that the other positions also make chemical sense, you can also guide yourself in how the other high resolution spectra of your sample move.
In the same way, there are currently several investigations that suggest avoiding the correction of the binding energy with C 1s, however I understand that for some specific samples it is very difficult to avoid its use.
Hi Luis, assuming the spectra were measured in a correct way with respect to sample charging, you have to know what the sample is and what to expect. Commonly, the spectra are shifted to adventitious carbon as you probably do it. However, in the case you show this is very difficult and I simply would not shift the spectra. Depends on what information you need to dig out, sometimes it is not necessary.
The pitfalls of the BE calibration procedure are nicely described here
10.1016/j.pmatsci.2019.100591
The adventitious carbon method is, rightfully, under heavy criticism and not as reliable as some people seem to think it is. In any case, if carbon is a major part of the compound, it cannot be applied, anyway, and will definitely result in making the data worse.
In the case of your spectra, like Miroslav Kolibal I would also recommend not to shift your spectrum at all; it doesn't look like there is charging going on to a significant extent, anyway.
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Correction