Spectral Interpretation and Data Analysis

Successful interpretation of XP spectra requires knowledge of the physical processes of photoemission, the basic operation of the spectrometer, the chemistry of the sample, and often, good practice of fitting a mathematical model to experimental data. This chapter aims to introduce each of these areas, with explanations sufficient to carry out high quality analysis, and signposts to more advanced study. At the root of all these is the photoemission process, which is first described here using the single particle approximation, followed by the more advanced many body treatment. The contributions to peak width and shape are discussed, and approaches to quantification and background subtraction are introduced. Valence spectra are covered separately, as they have certain features that are distinct from core lines. Guides to peak fitting basics, and advanced approaches in chemometrics follow, and lastly a survey of important materials classes is given with recommendations for approaches to XPS analysis.