Thin Film Research Highlights – BL2.2 TRXAS
At the BL2.2 (TRXAS) beamline, X-ray absorption spectroscopy enables real-time monitoring of electro-deposition processes for alloys such as Fe–Ni, and the observation of atomic relocation and oxidation-state changes during thermal annealing. The works below highlight recent thin-film research enabled by the beamline.
Biomimetic Inorganic–Organic Protective Layer for Highly Stable and Reversible Zn Anodes
This work describes a biomimetic inorganic–organic protective layer on the Zn anode that establishes abundant negatively charged ion microchannels to facilitate fast Zn2+ transport and to modulate the ionic solvation structure. During cycling it also forms an Mg–SiO2 interphase with high Young’s modulus and strong zincophilicity, ultimately enabling a stable and reversible Zn anode.
Authors: Chengwu Yang, Pattaraporn Woottapanit, Sining Geng, Rungroj Chanajaree, Kittima Lolupiman, Wanwisa Limphirat, Xinyu Zhang, and Jiaqian Qin
Read the publication: https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.4c03005
An Operando X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy Study on Sensing Characteristics of Vertically Aligned ZnO Thin Film for Methane Gas Sensors
This study demonstrates the fabrication of vertically aligned ZnO nanorods using a combined sputtering and hydrothermal approach for methane gas sensing. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the growth of hexagonal nanorods (50 nm diameter) on a dense seed layer, while Zn K-edge XANES analysis verified the structural integrity of the ZnO film. Crucially, simultaneous XANES and sensing measurements revealed a strong correlation between the ZnO structural properties and sensor performance under optimal conditions.
Authors: Suriya Duangmanee, Yingyot Poo-arporn, Pattanaphong Janphuang, Pimchanok Leuasoongnoen, Surangrat Tonlublao, Phitsamai Kamonpha, Natawan Saengchai, Narong Chanlek, Chatree Saisombat, Pinit Kidkhunthod, and Rungtiva P. Poo-arporn
Read the publication: https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12081285