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Published on: September 18, 2018
A quantitative analysis of a multi-phase polycrystalline cubic boron nitride tool material using DualEELS
J Angseryd1, M Albu, H-O Andrén
1R&D Sandvik Tooling, SE-126 80 Stockholm, Sweden. jenny.angseryd@sandvik.com
Micron (Oxford, England : 1993)
|April 5, 2011
Summary
This study quantifies material composition using electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) for advanced tool materials. Accurate elemental and bonding maps were generated, revealing surface oxidation and amorphization.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Polycrystalline cubic boron nitride is a critical tool material.
- Quantitative analysis of its composition is essential for understanding performance.
- Electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) offers detailed elemental and chemical state information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To perform a quantitative analysis of a polycrystalline cubic boron nitride tool material.
- To generate element-specific bonding maps with areal and volumetric densities.
- To investigate surface oxidation and amorphization in constituent phases.
Main Methods:
- Electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) spectrum imaging in dual range mode.
- Simultaneous acquisition of low-loss and core-loss EELS spectra.
- Multiple linear least squares fitting for quantification and bonding map extraction.
Main Results:
- Accurate thickness corrections enabled precise quantification.
- Element-specific bonding maps (Al, B, C, N, Ti, O) were successfully extracted.
- Variations in elemental concentrations were determined, overcoming spectral and spatial overlaps.
- Surface oxidation of Ti(C,N) and AlN, and amorphization of α-Al(2)O(3) were observed.
Conclusions:
- Dual-range EELS is highly effective for quantitative analysis of complex materials.
- The method provides detailed insights into material composition and degradation.
- This quantitative approach is crucial for optimizing tool material design and application.
