ASTM E1829-14(R2020) pdf free download
ASTM E1829-14(R2020) pdf free download.Standard Guide for Handling Specimens Prior to Surface Analysis
4. Significance and Use
4.1 Proper handling and preparation of specimens is par- ticularly critical for analysis. Improper handling of specimens can result in alteration of the surface composition and unreli- able data. Specimens should be handled carefully so as to avoid the introduction of spurious contaminants. The goal must be to preserve the state of the surface so that analysis remains representative of the original subject. 4.2 AES, XPS, and SIMS are sensitive to surface layers that are typically a few nanometres thick. Such thin layers can be subject to severe perturbations from improper specimen han- dling (1). 4 4.3 This guide describes methods to minimize the effects of specimen handling on the results obtained using surface- sensitive analytical techniques. It is intended for the specimen owner or the purchaser of surface analytical services and the surface analyst. Because of the wide range of types of specimens and desired information, only broad guidelines and general examples are presented here. The optimum handling procedures will be dependent on the particular specimen and the needed information. It is recommended that the specimen supplier consult the surface analyst as soon as possible with regard to specimen history, the specific problem to be solved or information needed, and the particular specimen preparation or handling procedures required. The surface analyst also is referred to Guide E1078 that discusses additional procedures for preparing, mounting, and analysis of specimens.
5. General Requirements
5.1 The degree of cleanliness required by surface-sensitive analytical techniques often is much greater than for other forms of analysis. 5.2 Specimens must never be in contact with the bare hand. Handling of the surface to be analyzed should be eliminated or minimized whenever possible. 5.3 Specimens should be transported to the analyst in a container that does not come into direct contact with the surface of interest. 5.4 In most cases, the analysis will be performed on the “as received” specimen. Surface contamination or atmospheric adsorbates are not usually removed because of the importance of analyzing an unaltered surface and as these are often the regions of interest. Care must then be taken in handling the specimen to ensure that no outside agents come in contact with the surface to be investigated. These agents include: solvents or cleaning solutions, gases (including compressed air) or vapors, metals, tissue or other wrapping materials, tape, cloth, tools, packing materials, or the walls of containers. If the specimen supplier is uncertain of the requirements for a specific specimen, they should consult the analyst.5.5 In some cases (for example, for a large specimen), it may be necessary to take a representative sample from the specimen. Selection of a smaller sample from a larger speci- men should be done while considering the information being sought because inhomogeneities are often present. It is recom- mended that this choice be made in consultation with an experienced analyst. 5.6 Numerous methods exist for the mounting ofa specimen in preparation for analysis. Refer to Guide E1078. 5.7 Hazardous Materials—Special caution shall be exer- cised with specimens containing potential toxins or other hazardous materials. Whenever possible, chemical hazard data sheets should be supplied with the specimen. 5.8 The severity of the requirement for specimen handling varies dramatically with the condition of the surface and the location of the information being sought. The list in Appendix X1 describes types of specimens by their increasing sensitivity to handling.
6. Specimen Influences
6.1 The analyst should be advised of the specimen history, special storage or transport requirements, exposure to possible contaminants, and the information being sought. 6.2 History—The history of a specimen can influence the handling of its surface. For example, a specimen that has been previously exposed to a contaminating environment may reduce the need for exceptional care ifthe surface becomes less reactive. Alternatively, the need for care may increase if the surface becomes toxic.
