The surface analysis method bridging the pressure gap

A novel method of characterisation of the surface composition of the porous materials has been proposed. The sample-probe is suggested to be introduced into the bed of a porous material. It is supposed that the ‘mirror’ of the surface of porous materials is formed on the surface of the probe. The different iron catalysts for ammonia synthesis were examined using this method. An iron foil was a probe. It was found out that the concentration of potassium and sodium on the surface of the probe corresponded well with the concentration of these promoters in the iron catalyst.