Speaker
Description
This work presents a new environmental photon-scanning probe microscopy platform at the ALBA Synchrotron, designed to enable correlative experiments under controlled atmospheres and operando conditions. The facility integrates a micro-Raman spectrometer with an optically coupled atomic force microscopy head, providing advanced capabilities for multimodal characterization. The micro-Raman system accommodates several custom-designed environmental cells, allowing measurements under controlled humidity, gas composition, temperature, and high-pressure conditions, including diamond anvil cell configurations. It also supports the incorporation of external lasers for in situ photochemical and photophysical studies.
The platform provides access to low-frequency Raman modes below 5 cm⁻¹, high spectral resolution below 0.2 cm⁻¹, and full polarization control, enabling precise Raman mapping, elastic constant measurements in two-dimensional materials, and the detection of subtle spectral perturbations associated with doping, strain, or chemical interactions. The system includes three excitation wavelengths, 532, 633, and 785 nm, and four gratings, 300, 600, 1800, and 2400 lines/mm. The AFM module offers multiple topographic and electrical operation modes and is compatible with tip-enhanced Raman scattering and tip-enhanced photoluminescence.
This facility forms part of a collaborative initiative within the Spanish Advanced Materials Programme, aimed at developing a unique infrastructure for the correlative use of scanning/transmission electron microscopy, scanning probe microscopy, and synchrotron radiation techniques. By integrating complementary nanoscale and spectroscopic methods, the platform will support the investigation of advanced materials and address key scientific challenges related to sustainable technologies and the European Green Deal.