Comments on “A study of amorphous Ti–Ni alloys by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy”

摘要: Abstract Recently, Seabolt et al. have published a paper [M.A. Seabolt, W.R. Ogden, A.R. Chourasia, A. Ishida, J. Electron Spectrosc. Relat. Phenom. 135 (2004) 135] in which – among others they determine the density of states (DOS) some materials by electron spectroscopic means. The experimental work do is impressive and pioneering with trying to make quantitative analysis states. However, oversimplified data evaluation method strongly degrades value their work. authors state (but not show) that results complementary support conclusions, but principle technical mistakes during unreliable. Below, scrutinized it shown information derive more likely artifact, stemming from inherent features Shirley-type background removal, rather than measure DOS. In spectroscopy solids one most challenging problems separate contributions intrinsic extrinsic inelastic energy loss processes. Although theoretically task can be solved, practical methods (derived on basis simplified theoretical models) involve lot approximations because this range validity should respected. Shirley procedure very popular its simplicity produces closed peak area relatively short range. On other side, has no model based background, although frequently stated (without proof) removes both measured spectrum. Because this, at least questionable if simple could used extract Fermi level spectra, as was done 135].