| AVS 60th International Symposium and Exhibition | |
| Applied Surface Science | Thursday Sessions |
| Session AS+BI+EM+NL+NS+SS-ThM |
| Session: | Nanoparticle Surface Chemistry |
| Presenter: | E.A. Schweikert, Texas A&M University |
| Authors: | C.-K. Liang, Texas A&M University S.V. Verkhoturov, Texas A&M University E.A. Schweikert, Texas A&M University |
| Correspondent: | Click to Email |
The importance of surface characterization of nano-objects in dimensions below 50 nm is well recognized. Indeed the most pronounced changes in chemical reactivity are expected to occur on the smallest size nano-objects. Yet, as their size shrinks, measurement techniques are lagging. A further concern, when seeking insight into size-composition-reactivity relationships, is population heterogeneity. We present here a technique for assaying individual nano-objects. The method involves bombarding dispersed nano-objects one-by-one with nanoprojectiles specifically Au4004+, at hypervelocity. Their impact causes abundant emission of ionized ejecta which are identified individually for each impact by time-of-flight mass spectrometry. We will describe the characterization of surfaces and environments of nano-objects as revealed by selected grazing projectile impacts.