An X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic investigation of the oxidation of manganese

Abstract
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy has been used to investigate a range of manganese oxide compounds and the initial stages of oxidation of manganese metal. It is shown that the Mn 2p3/2 binding energy, the extent of multiplet splitting of the 3s level, and the O Is : Mn 2p3/2 signal intensity ratio vary systematically between the different oxides. This information is used to identify oxide species present on the surface of manganese films during oxidation. A reaction sequence Mn→MnO→Mn2O3→MnO2 is demonstrated.