Meaning
Analytical technique providing chemical and structural information by measuring the energy change of electrons passing through a specimen. Researchers use electron energy-loss spectroscopy to determine elemental composition and bonding states at the atomic scale. The method detects the amount of kinetic energy lost by primary electrons as they interact with the sample.
Signal Source
Primary signals originate from inelastic scattering events within the thin specimen. While elastic scattering preserves energy, electron energy-loss spectroscopy focuses on the specific energy quantities absorbed by the material.
Energy Resolution
Precision in the spectral data depends on the source spread and the spectrometer quality. A high resolution allows electron energy-loss spectroscopy to distinguish between different oxidation states of transition metals. It identifies subtle shifts in peak positions.
Oxidation Mapping
Valence state distribution across a battery electrode provides insight into local degradation. By applying electron energy-loss spectroscopy to cycled particles, a technician maps where oxygen loss or metal reduction occurs across the surface and into the bulk of the active material. This spatial data links local chemistry to global capacity loss and helps verify the effectiveness of protective coatings.
High resolution maps confirm the presence of specific ions without damaging the delicate structure of the electrode.
