Understanding atom probe tomography of molecular materials (C03)

• Subject Area: Thermodynamics and Kinetics as well as Properties of Phases and Microstructure of Materials ; Synthesis and Properties of Functional Materials
• Term: since 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 358283783

The project extends atom-probe tomography (APT) to analysis of frozen liquids, soft matter, and porous molecular materials and to exploit this analysis method of for the CRC. Our previous results show that the obtained mass spectra are overly complex and field evaporation of hybrid materials is heterogeneous. We will develop innovative pump-probe pulse concepts to control post-desorption fragmentation and homogenize the evaporation rates. Fragmentation patterns, combined with simulations based on density functional theory, help to interpret the mass spectra. Our long-term goal is to extend the range of materials applicable to APT towards further organic solvents and ionic liquids in silica pores as addressed in the CRC.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1333: Molecular Heterogeneous Catalysis in Confined Geometries
• Applicant Institution: Universität Stuttgart
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Johannes Kästner, since 7/2022; Professor Dr. Guido Schmitz