FT-IR Spectroscopy in Ultrahigh Vacuum: Surface Science Approach for Understanding Reactions on Catalytic Oxide Powders

Introduction

The fundamental advantage of using FT-IR spectroscopy in vacuum is to avoid the absorption of atmospheric moisture and other gas species (CO2). Vacuum spectrometers provide a better stability and reproducibility in comparison to the dry air/nitrogen purged spectrometers. Furthermore, the UHV adaption allows IR characterization of samples that have to be prepared and stored under UHV conditions without sample-transfer in air, and therefore enables the closely combination of FT-IR technique with other UHV experimental methods.