AVS 49th International Symposium
    Applied Surface Science Thursday Sessions
       Session AS-ThA

Invited Paper AS-ThA3
Real World Surface Analysis

Thursday, November 7, 2002, 2:40 pm, Room C-106

Session: Practical Surface Science II
Presenter: W.R. Nieveen, Charles Evans & Associates - Evans Analytical Group
Authors: W.R. Nieveen, Charles Evans & Associates - Evans Analytical Group
T.F. Fister, Charles Evans & Associates - Evans Analytical Group
P. Lindley, Charles Evans & Associates - Evans Analytical Group
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In todays short R&D-to-product cycle, there is often an oversimplification of the use and valuation of surface analysis. The dividing line is usually chosen between academic/institutional versus industrial or production environments and the most common divider is typically time. Both arenas are equally "real", but the utilization of equipment and instrumentation is typically quite dissimilar. Consequently, methodology between the two divisions is also substantially different. The outcome of any particular surface analytical experiment may have different significance depending on the environment in which it is conducted. The process by which decisions within the analysis are determined and the resulting decisions from the experiment's conclusion can greatly affect the way a particular analysis is performed. These intangibles frequently affect the perceived success or value of surface analysis. In this talk, we will look at the differences in methodology between typical industrial or production situations compared to the R&D or academic use of surface analysis. We will contrast the deadlines, purpose, and goals of typical R&D projects with the demands, timelines, and expectations of a production problem. We will examine the role of the analyst and the affect his/her experience within and outside the framework of surface analysis has on the results. Current real world examples (from both types of environments) using multiple technique surface analysis will be presented to illustrate the processes. Time permitting, examples of surface analytical methods as a research technique for materials characterization, a method for problem solving and/or failure analysis, and a metrology and/or QA/QC tool will be given. The incorporation of these different environments, the analytical decision processes, and the utilization of the results will be important for "expert system" development in surface analysis.