X-ray absorption spectroscopy set-up for unstable gases: A study of 5p hydrides

• Published in: Radiation physics and chemistry (Oxford, England : 1993) England : 1993), 2020-06, Vol.171, p.108743, Article 108743
• Main Authors: Hauko, R., Padežnik Gomilšek, J., Kodre, A., Arčon, I.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Absorption spectra; Absorption spectroscopy; Gaseous hydrides; Hydrides; Micro-synthesis absorption cell; Multielectron photoexcitations; Room temperature; Signal to noise ratio; Spectrum analysis; Syringes; X ray absorption; X-ray absorption spectroscopy; X-ray spectroscopy
• ISSN: 0969-806X; 1879-0895
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2020.108743

An absorption cell is constructed for x-ray absorption spectroscopy of reactive, unstable or hazardous gases at room temperature. In conjunction with in-situ micro-synthesis technique relying on handling the gas in syringes it enabled a first measurement of x-ray absorption spectra in the region of K and L edges for the series of hydrides of 5p elements (SnH4, SbH3, TeH2, HI). The signal-to-noise ratio above 103 was achieved, whereby fine detail is discerned in the spectra, in particular the small sharp features above each absorption edge, testifying of coexcitations of outer electrons in the core photoeffect. •Absorption cell for x-ray absorption spectroscopy of unstable gases is developed.•K and L edge spectra in the series of hydrides of 5p elements (Sn–I) are measured.•With signal-to-noise ratio of 103 and better, the fine detail in spectra is discerned.•Above the edge, the weak multielectron photoabsorption features are resolved.