Abstract
A new sample preparation method for eliminating the hydrogen impermeable oxide surface layers of base metals like V, Nb and Ta is described. Applying UHV-techniques the metal foils are heated inductively and subsequently coated with a thin metallic Pd-film. By this method the metals are cleaned, at the same time annealed, and protected successfully against the formation of new passive layers, as is shown by x-rays, SIMS, and AES investigations.