Surface analysis of etched Magnox alloys by secondary ion mass spectrometry and ion scattering spectroscopy

Abstract

The surface composition of some Magnox alloys etched in citric acid has been examined by secondary ion mass spectrometry and ion scattering spectroscopy. An enrichment of carbon containing species in the outermost regions of the surface was indicated, with an oxide–hydroxide layer containing enhanced quantities of aluminium, the main alloying element of the bulk metal, and the trace impurities iron, zinc, calcium (potassium), copper, manganese, silicon, and beryllium. The latter is difficult to detect by other methods but its identification using these techniques indicates that, as aluminium, it may be considered to playa role in the formation of the initial oxide layer.