NEXAFS investigations of transition metal oxides, nitrides, carbides, sulfides and other interstitial compounds

Owing to their unique physical and chemical properties, transition metal compounds, especially transition metal oxides, nitrides, carbides and sulfides, have been the subject of many surface science investigations. In this article we will review applications of the near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) technique in the investigations of electronic and structural properties of transition metal compounds. This review covers NEXAFS studies of compounds in various physical forms, including bulk single crystals, well-characterized overlayers on surfaces of corresponding parent metals, and amorphous powder materials. In addition to transition metal oxides, nitrides, carbides and sulfides, we will also briefly discuss NEXAFS studies of interstitial compounds containing other 2p and 3p non-metal components, namely boron, fluorine, silicon, phosphorus and chlorine. l discuss the correlation between experimental NEXAFS spectra and the local bonding environment of these compounds, such as the number of d-electrons, spin configurations, ligand-field splitting, coordination numbers, local symmetries, and crystal structures. In addition, NEXAFS investigations of the adsorption and reaction of probing molecules will also be discussed to reveal the underlying chemical reactivities of these materials. We will use many examples to demonstrate the importance of NEXAFS studies in the overall understanding of the physical and chemical properties of transition metal compounds. Finally, we will conclude this review by summarizing the current applications, as well as potential research opportunities, of NEXAFS in several technologically important research areas, including materials science, catalysis, biological science, earth science and environmental science.