Surface chemistry is the focus of experimental work being done in my laboratory, in particular the kinetics and spectroscopy of species chemisorbed on well-characterized semiconductor, metal and insulator surfaces. Interest is focused on molecular level questions regarding the structure and reactivity of species important in chemical reactions.

In approaching these problems, White group students use ultra-high vacuum (10^-10 Torr), intermediate pressure reactors (0.1 - 1000 Torr), optical spectroscopy, electron spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, environmental scanning electron microscopy and electron diffraction techniques. High resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy and IR are used to characterize the vibrational structure of chemisorbed species. Auger, X-ray and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy are used to detail the kind of species present and the chemical environment. Mass spectrometry, including Fourier transform and secondary ion, are used to characterize fragments ejected from the surface by ions, electrons, or photons. Photon- and electron-driven surface reactions are topics of current focus.

In order to arrive at a fairly detailed molecular level understanding of what species form during chemisorption and how these species react to form the products that are desorbed into the gas phase, various techniques are used in a concerted manner with a major goal being to examine surfaces while reactions are occurring. Practical applications of these very interesting problems can be found in the chemical, electronic, and combustion industries.

We have a particular interest in the chemical dynamics and kinetics of molecules used in the growth of thin films for electronic and opto-electronic structures and devices.

Learn more about Dr. White...
E-mail Dr. White, jmwhite@mail.utexas.edu...