Interactions of residual gases with a barium getter film as measured by AES and XPS

Abstract

To arrive at a better understanding of barium getters, the interactions of a barium film with various gases has been measured with the aid of both AES and XPS techniques. The experimental results are interpreted in terms of the surface characteristics of the reaction, specific reaction rate, and interaction products. The interaction products involve both barium compounds (oxide, hydroxide, carbide, and carbonate) and adsorbates. The occurrence of the (carbon-containing) adsorbates is related to those gas exposures which are known to produce methane in actual tubes. Comparison between the measured characteristics of the gas–barium interactions and the properties of barium getters as observed in actual television picture tubes shows a good consistency.