Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES) Analytical Service

Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) is a highly sensitive surface analysis method that enables qualitative and semi-quantitative characterization of the elemental composition and chemical states of material surfaces. Compared with traditional structural imaging techniques, AES offers exceptional surface sensitivity with a probing depth of only 1–5 nm, equivalent to just a few atomic layers. This unique feature makes AES particularly advantageous for studying thin films, coatings, interfaces, and surface modifications. It is especially suitable for nanoscale surface elemental analysis, allowing accurate identification of surface contaminants and in-depth investigation of interfacial properties. In pharmaceutical research and development, variations in surface chemical states can directly affect drug carrier stability, drug–molecule binding affinity, and interactions between materials and biological systems. Therefore, precise characterization of these parameters is critical for new drug discovery, formulation optimization, and quality control of medical devices.

 

As a professional CRO, MtoZ Biolabs leverages advanced surface analysis platforms and extensive experimental expertise to provide a high-quality auger electron spectroscopy (AES) analytical service that not only helps researchers and enterprises gain deep insights into surface chemical properties but also delivers reliable data support for drug discovery and materials development.

 

Services at MtoZ Biolabs

The fundamental principle of AES involves bombarding the sample with a high-energy electron beam to create inner-shell vacancies. When outer-shell electrons fill these vacancies, energy is released and transferred to another electron, which escapes from the surface as an Auger electron. The kinetic energy of these electrons is characteristic of specific elements, enabling elemental identification. Given the extremely shallow probing depth, AES is especially suitable for studying surface modifications, thin film thickness, and interfacial composition.

 



Figure 1. Schematic Diagram of the Auger Process

 

MtoZ Biolabs provides a comprehensive auger electron spectroscopy (AES) analytical service, including:

✔️ Elemental qualitative and semi-quantitative analysis: Identification and concentration estimation of all elements on the sample surface except hydrogen and helium.

✔️ Chemical state analysis: Determination of oxidation states and valence states based on energy differences.

✔️ 2D elemental mapping: Acquisition of micro-area elemental distribution images using scanning AES.

✔️ Depth profiling: Combination with ion sputtering to reveal elemental distribution at different depth layers.

✔️ Correlative multi-platform analysis: Integration with SEM, TEM, and other techniques for more complete materials characterization.

 

We also offer customized analytical solutions tailored to client needs, ensuring scientific rigor and data reliability.

 

Analysis Workflow

1. Sample receipt and pre-treatment: Inspection to ensure vacuum compatibility and clean surface conditions.

2. Vacuum system preparation: Placement of the sample in an ultra-high vacuum chamber to avoid adsorption interference.

3. Electron beam excitation and signal collection: Excitation of the sample surface with a high-energy electron beam and detection of Auger electrons.

4. Data analysis and interpretation: Processing of spectral data to identify elements, oxidation states, and distributions.

5. Reporting and delivery: Compilation of experimental details, spectra, and comprehensive analytical reports.

 

Service Advantages

1. High surface sensitivity

With a probing depth of only 1–5 nm, AES is ideally suited for investigating surface and interfacial composition. MtoZ Biolabs leverages this sensitivity to uncover information often inaccessible by conventional methods.

 

2. High spatial resolution

Scanning AES achieves lateral resolutions better than 10 nm, enabling detailed analysis of fine particles, localized contaminants, and grain boundary chemistry.

 

3. Tailored solutions

Different research objectives require specific strategies. MtoZ Biolabs designs customized auger electron spectroscopy (AES) analytical services to meet diverse application needs and ensure meaningful results.

 

4. Correlative multi-platform capability

AES can be combined with SEM, TEM, and other complementary tools for integrated structural, morphological, and compositional characterization.

 

5. Experienced technical team

Our seasoned experts and robust quality management systems guarantee data reliability, reproducibility, and strong support for both research and industrial applications.

 

Applications

1️⃣Nanomaterials research: Surface elemental mapping and chemical state analysis of nanoparticles, nanowires, and thin films.

2️⃣Semiconductors and electronics: Detection of surface contamination, thin film defects, and interface composition for device quality assurance.

3️⃣Metallurgy and materials science: Characterization of oxide layers, corrosion layers, and grain boundary chemistry in alloys and metals.

4️⃣Drug delivery systems: Analysis of surface modifications on carriers to assess stability in biological environments.

5️⃣Medical devices and coatings: Evaluation of coating uniformity and integrity to ensure product performance and safety.

 

FAQs

Q1: Is AES a destructive technique?

In most cases AES is considered non-destructive, but high-energy electron beams and sputtering may cause localized damage in certain sensitive materials.

 

Sample Submission Suggestions

1. Sample types: Solids, thin films, coatings, and nanostructures with sufficient mechanical stability.

2. Size requirements: Recommended maximum of 1 cm², with moderate thickness.

3. Storage and transport: Surfaces should be kept clean; store in clean containers under dry, low-temperature conditions. For transportation, vacuum sealing or inert gas protection is recommended.

4. Quantity: At least 2–3 samples should be provided for parallel testing and validation.

 

Deliverables

1. Detailed experimental methodology and parameters

2. AES spectral data (raw and processed spectra)

3. Elemental composition and chemical state analysis results

4. Elemental distribution maps and depth profiles (if requested)

5. Comprehensive conclusions and a full technical report

 

Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) is a powerful and highly sensitive surface analysis technique with critical applications in pharmaceuticals, nanotechnology, semiconductors, and materials science. Backed by advanced platforms and an experienced technical team, MtoZ Biolabs provides a reliable and comprehensive auger electron spectroscopy (AES) analytical service.

 

If you are seeking high-quality surface elemental and chemical state characterization, MtoZ Biolabs is your trusted partner, delivering end-to-end support for both scientific research and industrial development.