Stubbing_RSI_2018.pdf (780.39 kB)
A fibre-coupled UHV-compatible variable angle reflection-absorption UV/visible spectrometer
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-09, 13:03 authored by James StubbingJames Stubbing, T L Salter, Wendy BrownWendy Brown, S Taj, M R S McCoustraWe present a novel UV/visible reflection-absorption spectrometer for determining the refractive index, n, and thicknesses, d, of ice films. Knowledge of the refractive index of these films is of particular relevance to the astrochemical community, where they can be used to model radiative transfer and spectra of various regions of space. In order to make these models more accurate, values of n need to be recorded under astronomically relevant conditions, that is, under ultra-high vacuum (UHV) and cryogenic cooling. Several design considerations were taken into account to allow UHV compatibility combined with ease of use. The key design feature is a stainless steel rhombus coupled to an external linear drive (z-shift) allowing a variable reflection geometry to be achieved, which is necessary for our analysis. Test data for amorphous benzene ice is presented as a proof of concept, the film thickness, d, was found to vary linearly with surface exposure and a value for n of 1.43 ± 0.07 was determined.
Funding
Evolution of ices: From molecular cloud to ocean; G1613; STFC-SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY FACILITIES COUNCIL; ST/M000869/1
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Journal
Review of Scientific InstrumentsISSN
0034-6748Publisher
AIP PublshingExternal DOI
Issue
054102Volume
89Page range
1-6Department affiliated with
- Chemistry Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2018-04-24First Open Access (FOA) Date
2018-04-24First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2018-04-24Usage metrics
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