Indium foil support

Figure Bl.25.9(a) shows the positive SIMS spectrum of a silica-supported zirconium oxide catalyst precursor, freshly prepared by a condensation reaction between zirconium ethoxide and the hydroxyl groups of the support [17]. Note the simultaneous occurrence of single ions (Ff, Si, Zr and molecular ions (SiO, SiOFf, ZrO, ZrOFf, ZrtK. Also, the isotope pattern of zirconium is clearly visible. Isotopes are important in the identification of peaks, because all peak intensity ratios must agree with the natural abundance. In addition to the peaks expected from zirconia on silica mounted on an indium foil, the spectrum in figure Bl. 25.9(a)...

The surface chemical composition was analyzed with SIMS method using a MS-7201 mass-spectrometer. The energy of the incident Ar ion beam was equal to 4 Kev, the current density 10-20 mka/cm. To prevent sample charging during ion bombardment, samples were supported onto high purity indium foil. 

If the samples are of a stable solid form but have spatial dimensions smaller than a few millimeters or are in the form of powders, some alternative support is needed. One practice is to use Indium foil strips into which the sample is pressed using another piece of Indium foil and/or a precleaned spatula. The Indium strips are then affixed into/onto the respective sample holder. Any remaining loose powder should be removed before inserting the sample into the introduction chamber by inverting and tapping the sample holder and/or directing a pressurized N2 flow via an N2 gun over the surface. 

These cells do not rely on a traditional p-n junction to separate photo-generated charge carriers. Polymer cell materials used include polyester (PET) foil, indium tin oxide (ITO) film, polyethylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT), and aluminum. Nanocrystalline cells use thin film materials and are overlayed on a supporting matrix of conductive polymer or mesoporous metal oxide. 

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