Infrared Emission Spectroscopy Applied to the Oxidation of Molybdenum

Abstract

The present work points out the utility of infrared emission spectroscopy as applied to the study of the oxidation of metal surfaces. It is shown that good results can be achieved even with standard dispersion spectrophotometers. The work shows emission spectra obtained at a temperature of only 133°C from samples of about 380 A thickness and 2 cm² area. The molybdenum oxides are particularly useful to test the capability of the infrared emission spectroscopy technique. The study of the behavior of the emission bands and the differences between the emission and absorption spectra show that this technique cannot only be an alternative to absorption spectroscopy, but also can give different data from those which can be achieved by the absorption technique. Spectra are recorded directly on the oxidizing sample. The increase in intensity and the change in the shape of the bands are monitored while the oxidation is performed. It is noted that with infrared emission spectroscopy, sample preparation is greatly simplified.