Paracetamol tablet analyzed by XPS

Paracetamol tablet was analyzed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Sample was fixed to a stainless-steel sample holder with a copper double-sided adhesive tape. Survey spectra, C 1s, O 1s, N 1s, Si 2p, Mg 2s, Mg KLL, and Mg 1s core levels spectra were acquired. Results showed the presence of carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen, elements that constitute the chemical structure of paracetamol; however, these can also be part of the excipients. In addition, silicon and magnesium were detected, which are related to excipients.