Reactive Multilayers Examined by HRTEM and Plasmon EELS Chemical Mapping

Abstract We examine chemical mapping of reaction phases in a Cu-Al multilayer system using low-loss electron energy loss spectroscopy spectrum imaging and image spectroscopy techniques. The sensitivity of the plasmon peak position and shape to various crystal structures and phases is exploited using postprocessing of spectra into second derivative plasmon maps and line scans. Analytical transmission electron microscopy is complemented by studies of the orientation relationship of the multilayer system using high-resolution electron microscopy of interfaces and selected area diffraction. The techniques have been applied to the Cu-Al multilayer sample and sharply bound epitaxial phases are found, before and after heat treatment.