Simulating the oxygen K-edge spectrum from grain boundaries in ceramic oxides using the multiple scattering methodology

Abstract

In this paper we demonstrate the use of the multiple scattering methodology to interpret oxygen K-edge spectra from both the bulk and grain boundaries in a variety of ceramic oxides. The experimental electron energy loss spectra (EELS) used in this study, were obtained from a dedicated scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). Using the STEM to obtain the spectra has the advantage that each spectrum can be acquired with atomic spatial resolution. While the energy resolution is limited to ∼0.8 eV, and the angular integration in the microscope apertures precludes momentum resolved spectroscopy, this unprecedented spatial resolution allows the electronic structure at individual defect sites to be determined. Additionally, as the microscope can also provide an atomic resolution image of the defect, the relationship between the atomic structure of the defect and its local electronic structure can be determined. In practice, this is achieved by using the structure observed in the image to build the real space atomic cluster for multiple scattering simulations. Detailed interpretation of the simulations of oxygen K-edge spectra from bulk MgO, CaO, SrTiO 3, TiO 2, MnO 2, Mn 3O 4, Mn 2O 3 and MnO are presented. In addition, the simulations from grain boundaries in TiO 2 (undoped) and SrTiO 3 (undoped and Mn doped) are discussed in relation to quantifying the changes in the local electronic structure that are a direct consequence of the defect structure. The simulations are used to make interpretations of the structure–property relationships at these grain boundaries.