Characterization of Some 3d Transition Metal Oxides through Core Loss Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy

Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) is a useful technique for chemical microanalysis in the electron microscope. In particular, medium resolution (˜leV) measurements of core losses involving ionization of the tightly bound inner shell electrons reveal fine structure which identify both the core atom and the neighboring chemical environment. The transition metals of the third period possess narrow partly filled d-bands which give rise to striking magnetic and electronic properties of technological importance.